ETX Dental
Dental Bridges
If you’re dealing with missing teeth, they can affect more than just your smile. Missing teeth can lead to difficulty eating and speaking and can even change the shape of your face. Fortunately, dental bridges in Jefferson provide a reliable solution to replace missing teeth, restore functionality, and improve your overall appearance. At ETX Dental, Dr. Travis Horn and Dr. Kent Thigpen offer high-quality dental bridges tailored to your needs, helping you regain a full, healthy smile.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by literally “bridging” the gap between your healthy teeth or dental implants. A typical bridge has two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, known as the abutment teeth, with a false tooth or teeth in between. These false teeth are called pontics and can utilize various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, or a combination. Dental bridges are a durable, long-lasting solution that can improve your smile’s function and aesthetics.
Types of Dental Bridges
At ETX Dental, we offer several types of dental bridges, each designed to meet the specific needs of our patients:
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional bridge consists of a false tooth or teeth held in place by crowns that we cement onto the abutment teeth. This bridge is the most common type of dental bridge and is ideal for patients with healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Traditional bridges are strong and durable, making them a good option for restoring molars.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but has a crown on only one side. This type of bridge is used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. However, because it only has one attachment point, it is less common and typically used in areas of the mouth with less pressure, such as the front teeth.
Maryland-Bonded Bridge
Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this type uses a metal or porcelain framework to support the false tooth, which bonds to the back of the adjacent teeth. Maryland bridges are a more conservative option since they do not require us to reshape the neighboring teeth for crowns. However, they are generally not as strong as traditional bridges.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge offers the most stable and long-lasting solution for patients with multiple missing teeth. Instead of using crowns on adjacent teeth, this bridge anchors to dental implants surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges provide excellent stability and are a good option when multiple teeth are missing in a row.
Benefits of Dental Bridges in Jefferson
Choosing dental bridges at ETX Dental in Jefferson comes with a variety of benefits, including:
- Restored Functionality: Dental bridges allow you to chew and speak properly, restoring the natural function of your teeth.
- Improved Appearance: Missing teeth can cause your face to sag or appear sunken. Dental bridges restore the natural shape of your face, improving your overall appearance.
- Preventing Teeth Shifting: When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may shift into the gap, causing bite problems and misalignment. A dental bridge helps keep your teeth in their proper positions.
- Durability: With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years, making them a reliable solution for tooth replacement.
- Cost-Effective: Bridges are often more affordable than dental implants for replacing multiple missing teeth.
Why Choose ETX Dental for Dental Bridges in Jefferson?
At ETX Dental, Dr. Travis Horn and Dr. Kent Thigpen provide personalized, compassionate care for all patients. Our dentists will work with you to find the best solution for your dental needs, whether you need a single tooth replaced or a more extensive restoration. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, ETX Dental is your trusted partner for restoring your smile with dental bridges in Jefferson.
The Dental Bridge Process at ETX Dental
If you’re considering a dental bridge in Jefferson at ETX Dental, here’s what you can expect during the treatment process:
Consultation and Evaluation
Your journey to a restored smile begins with a consultation with Dr. Travis Horn or Dr. Kent Thigpen. During this visit, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your options for tooth replacement. They will also recommend the best type of dental bridge based on your specific needs.
Preparation of the Abutment Teeth
The next step for traditional and cantilever bridges involves preparing the abutment teeth. Dr. Horn or Dr. Thigpen will remove a small amount of enamel from the adjacent teeth to make room for the crowns. If you are getting an implant-supported bridge, this step involves placing the dental implants into your jawbone.
Impressions
Once we prepare the abutment teeth or the implants are in place, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth. We use these impressions to create a custom bridge that fits perfectly in your mouth and matches the color of your natural teeth.
Temporary Bridge
While we make your permanent bridge, your dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth and gums. You’ll wear this temporary bridge for a few weeks until the permanent one is ready.
Placement of the Permanent Bridge
When your custom bridge is ready, Dr. Horn or Dr. Thigpen will remove the temporary bridge and cement the permanent bridge in place. They will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Dental Bridges in Jefferson
If you’re ready to restore your smile with a dental bridge, contact ETX Dental in Jefferson today. Dr. Travis Horn and Dr. Kent Thigpen are here to provide expert care and ensure you get the best results for your oral health. Don’t let missing teeth affect your confidence—schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a complete, healthy smile.
