Dental Bridges in Irving, TX
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth to crowns on the neighboring teeth. At DFW Dental & Orthodontics in Irving, Dr. Kwon and Dr. Davis place custom bridges, usually over two or more visits, and a bridge can cost less than a dental implant.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?​
Besides potentially causing patients to lose confidence in their smile, a single missing tooth can have far-reaching negative effects on your oral health. A missing tooth can cause difficulty speaking and eating, and over time will result in the shifting of other teeth, bone loss, an uneven bite, and an increased risk of periodontal issues. ​
The Procedure​
The traditional 3-unit dental bridge consists of the replacement tooth (the pontic) held in place on either side by dental crowns (abutments), which are cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. The procedure is similar to that of receiving a dental crown, and typically two or more visits are required.
During the first visit, the abutment teeth are reshaped so that the crowns can be placed over them. An impression of the teeth is made, which is sent to a dental lab to create the bridge. Dr. Kwon & Dr. Davis will fit you with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth while your bridge is being crafted.
During your second visit, Dr. Kwon & Dr. Davis will remove the temporary bridge and check and adjust the new permanent bridge as necessary. Your dentist will confirm that the permanent bridge matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, and also check for proper fit and bite. Multiple visits may be needed to ensure that the bridge is fitting properly before cementing it permanently into place. ​
Caring for Your Bridge
As with all dental restorations, proper care of your dental bridge is extremely important to avoid difficulties with the restoration and prolong its life. Be sure to brush and floss daily in and around the bridge to keep the teeth that secure it and the surrounding area healthy!​
DFW Dental & Orthodontics
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a dental bridge?
A bridge is a fixed restoration that fills the gap left by a missing tooth. A traditional 3-unit bridge has a false tooth held in place by crowns on the teeth on either side.
Q. Bridge or implant: which is better?
A bridge usually costs less than an implant and is a good option if you don't have enough jawbone for an implant. An implant doesn't involve the neighboring teeth. Your dentist will help you compare both.
Q. How many visits does a bridge take?
Usually two or more. At the first visit, the supporting teeth are prepared, an impression is sent to a dental lab, and you get a temporary bridge. The permanent bridge is fitted and adjusted at the next visit.
Q. Why should I replace a missing tooth?
A gap can let nearby teeth shift, cause bone loss and make chewing or speaking harder. It can also raise your risk of gum disease.