People lose teeth for a variety of reasons including tooth decay and extensive injuries. Dental bridges are a popular and long-established restorative dentistry treatment that can fill in these gaps in your smile. Dentists utilize them to replace a single lost tooth or multiple consecutive missing teeth. Dr. Heather Adams can use a dental bridge in Rogers, AR to restore the aesthetics and function of your smile.
It is important to replace your missing or damaged teeth as soon as you can. Replacing missing teeth as soon as possible can help prevent the development of secondary dental issues. Tooth loss often leads to gum recession, speech impediments, shifting of teeth, premature facial sagging, and even bone loss which can impact the shape and stability of the jaw. A dental bridge can restore the function and appearance of your smile in many ways.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration dentists use to replace one or more missing teeth. This dental restoration will literally bridge the gap between existing teeth or dental implants. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, held in place by dental crowns. These crowns are anchored to existing adjacent teeth or can be secured using new dental implants.
Dr. Heather Adams will suggest a dental bridge in Rogers, AR to patients to help rebuild their smiles if affected by tooth loss. Our dental practice uses high-quality dental porcelain to fabricate them. Dr. Adams will custom-designed your dental bridge to blend in seamlessly with your smile.
Dental Bridge in Rogers, AR
Dr. Adams offers a full range of restorative treatment options for replacing missing teeth. Dental bridges and implant-supported dental bridges. Using state-of-the-art digital technology and personalized treatment planning, Dr. Adams is able to present patients with the most suitable option for replacing their missing teeth with long-lasting and stable results.
Removable Dental Bridge
Removable dental bridges are traditional, cost-effective options for temporarily replacing missing teeth. A removable bridge does not offer the long-term support for the jaw, gums, and adjacent teeth that implant-supported bridges can. Dr. Adams can help patients with an existing removable bridge find a more permanent solution for restoring their smile.
Fixed Dental Bridge
A fixed dental bridge is secured by adjacent teeth or with two or more dental implants. Fixed bridges provide more stability and improve the function of the bite and jaw. Fixed dental bridges help to prevent bone loss and additional tooth loss, stabilizing your long-term dental health.
Implant Supported Dental Bridge
Whenever possible, Dr. Adams will recommend securing a dental bridge with dental implants. An implant supported dental bridge is a natural option for replacing teeth.
Implants provide added stability and help support the jaw and preserve natural tooth alignment. Using implants to secure a dental bridge prevents the need to damage otherwise healthy teeth to use as anchors. Implant-supported bridges allow you to enjoy a naturally functioning and beautiful smile.
If dental implants are being used to secure a dental bridge, Dr. Adams will coordinate your surgical placement. Dr. Adams partners with reputable oral surgeons to place the best dental implants in Rogers, AR.
Once the implants are in place it takes about 3-6 months for the implants to fully heal and integrate with the jaw tissue. During this time, patients typically wear a temporary bridge. The final bridge will be fabricated and fit once the implants have secured to the jaw.
Dental Bridge FAQs
If you have questions about dental bridges, please contact our helpful dental staff during regular business hours. You can also read through our FAQ section. The following are answers to common questions our patients have asked us.
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
There are many things that must be considered here including age, bite, and the condition of the neighboring teeth. It is possible to replace up to four teeth with a bridge however the adjacent teeth must be in good condition to properly support the bridgework. Using a bridge to replace one or two teeth is easier and more common.
How long will my dental bridge last?
If cared for properly, your dental bridge can last up to 30 years. After it is placed, Dr. Adams will show you how to properly clean and care for it. You must follow these instructions as well as visit our Rogers, AR dentist office every six months for a routine cleaning to ensure the longevity of the bridge.
Does a dental bridge damage your teeth?
Unfortunately, in order to place the bridge, the adjacent teeth must be ground down to accommodate the dental crowns. While this is necessary to secure the bridge, it is essentially damaging perfectly healthy teeth to replace one or two teeth. A better option would be to secure the bridge with dental implants. No teeth are damaged with the placement of an implant-supported dental bridge.
Will a dental bridge affect my speech?
Having a dental bridge placed should not affect your speech. However, if it is replacing several missing teeth, it could actually improve your speech. They are designed to fit naturally in your mouth and mimic real teeth. Your new dental restoration should fit comfortably and allow you to speak naturally and comfortably. You may experience a brief adjustment period with your speech where you may notice a slight change however, it will not be significant.
Can I eat a normal diet with a dental bridge?
Yes, you can eat normally with a fixed dental bridge. This type of dental restoration is designed to restore the function of missing teeth. This will allow you to chew and eat a wide variety of foods just like you would with your natural teeth.
Is it possible to get a temporary dental bridge while waiting for the permanent one?
Yes, we will place a temporary dental bridge so you will not go without teeth while waiting for a permanent bridge. A temporary bridge is a common dental restoration that we can make. It will protect your teeth and help maintain proper tooth alignment while you wait.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost of your dental bridge will vary depending on how many teeth you are missing, the complexity of your case, and the current state of your oral health. A multi tooth bridge will cost more than a single tooth bridge since it will require more materials. An implant supported bridge is more expensive than a traditional, fixed bridge since it is a more sophisticated treatment. For a fixed bridge that will replace a single tooth, you should expect to spend between $1,500 and $5,000. However, for an implant supported bridge, the cost will be significantly more.
Can I get a dental bridge if I have gum disease?
Generally, it is best to be in good oral health before having a dental bridge placed. However, in some cases, it may be an appropriate treatment option in order to address some dental problems. It is best to have your dentist analyze your dental health and examine your teeth before creating a treatment plan.
Schedule an Appointment a Dental Bridge in Rogers, AR
Call Dr. Heather Adams today to discuss your tooth replacement options in detail including a dental bridge in Rogers, AR. If you would like to learn more about the procedure or to see if a dental bridge will work for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Adams today. Contact our office at (479) 323-3011 or request an appointment using our online form.