Dental Bridges in Dallas, TX
Having one or more missing teeth can have a serious effect not only on your smile, but also on your dental health. At Bluffview Dental, Dr. Banks uses custom dental bridges to fill the gap left by missing teeth, restoring your ability to chew and speak comfortably while protecting the alignment of your remaining teeth.
Request an AppointmentWhy Replacing Missing Teeth Matters
When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the effects can extend well beyond appearance. Specifically, missing teeth can cause:
- A shift in the alignment of your teeth
- Increased risk of periodontal disease
- Increased risk of tooth decay
- Loss of adjacent teeth
- Speech disorders
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
Like dental implants, dental bridges are used to replace a missing tooth, except bridges are supported by the teeth on either side, called abutment teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Bridges?
Like many cosmetic dental procedures, placing a bridge also serves a restorative purpose. A dental bridge will improve your ability to chew and speak as well as the look of your smile. Research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association has shown that dental bridges can reduce the risk of losing teeth adjacent to a missing tooth. In addition, bridges help keep your jaw and face from changing shape, as they tend to do when a person has missing teeth.
What Types of Bridges Are There?
- Traditional bridges are the most common and literally bridge the gap of an empty tooth space by securing a false tooth with crowns on the teeth on either side.
- Cantilever bridges replace a tooth that does not have supporting teeth on both sides of the affected area.
- Maryland bonded bridges include an artificial tooth held in place by a framework bonded to the backs of neighboring teeth.
How Are Dental Bridges Placed?
Placing a dental bridge is typically completed in two visits. First, Dr. Banks determines whether you are a good candidate for a bridge. If so, the supporting teeth are prepared by reshaping them and restoring any badly decayed or damaged areas. An impression of your teeth is taken and used to fabricate your custom bridge, and you will wear a temporary bridge in the meantime. On your second visit, the final bridge is fitted to your teeth, and any necessary adjustments are made the same day.
If several teeth are missing, a partial denture may also be an option, and our chart on that page compares bridgework to removable partials.
Are Bridges Covered by My Dental Insurance?
Dental bridges are typically partially covered by insurance. We accept most major insurance plans, and our team will help you understand your out-of-pocket costs. We also offer a free exam and consultation for bridgework through our special offers.
Dental Bridge FAQs
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the natural teeth or crowns on either side of the gap.
How long does it take to get a bridge?
Most dental bridges are completed in two visits: one to prepare the teeth and take impressions, and one to fit and adjust the final bridge.
How long do dental bridges last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, a dental bridge can last many years.
Is a bridge or an implant better for me?
Both replace missing teeth. Implants do not require reshaping neighboring teeth, while bridges can be faster and less involved. Dr. Banks will help you compare options.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Brush twice daily and use a floss threader, water flosser, or special bridge floss to clean beneath the false tooth.
Does insurance cover dental bridges?
Bridges are typically partially covered by insurance. Our staff will help you review your coverage.
Do you offer a free consultation for bridges?
Yes. We offer a free exam and consultation with a panoramic x-ray for bridgework. Not valid with other offers.
Fill the Gap in Your Smile
A dental bridge can restore your smile and protect your oral health. Call Bluffview Dental at (214) 350-2311 to schedule your bridge consultation.