Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Restore function, aesthetics, and confidence
A dental bridge is a restorative procedure used to replace missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, a dental bridge is securely anchored to the adjacent teeth, eliminating the need for removal and cleaning. Each bridge is custom-designed to ensure a natural and seamless appearance. With proper care, fixed bridges can last for many years before needing replacement.
Why Would I Need a Dental Bridge?
If you have a missing tooth and want to avoid dental implant surgery, or if you're not a candidate for implants, a dental bridge is an excellent alternative. It can restore both the appearance and function of your smile, while also preventing surrounding teeth from shifting or becoming misaligned.
Who can get a dental bridge?
Our dentist San Antonio will thoroughly evaluate your teeth to determine if a fixed bridge is the right solution for you. The bridge will be custom-designed to fit securely over two adjacent teeth, ensuring optimal placement and comfort. For larger bridges, stability can sometimes be a concern. If we believe the bridge alone may not provide enough support, we may recommend using dental implants to enhance its stability and ensure a lasting result.
Dental Bridge Procedure Overview
To begin the dental bridge procedure, we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Next, we will carefully shape and file down the adjacent teeth to create space for the new bridge. Impressions will be taken to create both a temporary and permanent bridge. Once the shaping is complete, a temporary bridge will be placed to protect your teeth while the permanent bridge is being custom-made. Afterward, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled for the final fitting. During this visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and the permanent bridge will be securely bonded using a dental-grade adhesive. We will then polish the bridge and make any final adjustments for a comfortable fit. Additionally, we will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your new bridge through proper brushing and flossing to help ensure its long-term durability.
