Dental Bridges – Green Hills, TN
Fill the Gap Created by Missing Teeth
The human mouth is a fascinating and intricate part of our bodies. Every little structure is interconnected, so much so that if even one tooth goes missing, it can have unfortunate consequences for other aspects of your health. That’s why it’s important to get your missing teeth replaced as soon as you can. Here at Green Hills Dental Center, we offer an easy way to do just that with a treatment called dental bridges. Dr. James Kirby can use a bridge to replace up to three consecutive missing teeth at once. To learn more about how a dental bridge in Green Hills can benefit your smile, call us today!
What Are Dental Bridges?
There are a few different types of bridges, but they’re all designed to literally “bridge” the gap left behind in your smile by tooth loss. These prosthetics work well to replace several missing teeth in a row.
Traditional dental bridges, the most common type, consist of two dental crowns that are placed over the teeth next to the gap in your smile (known as abutment teeth). One or more artificial teeth (called pontics) are suspended in between them to complete your smile and give you full chewing and speaking power again. This type of bridge is typically quite attractive and can last for several years.
We also offer implant-retained bridges. A small titanium post is placed at either end of your gap to support the bridge crowns without putting any stress on your natural teeth. Bridges secured by dental implants are often sturdier and longer lasting than the traditional variety.
Dr. Kirby will examine your mouth and determine which option is best for you.
The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge
Traditional bridges take a couple of appointments to place. During the first visit, we file down your abutment teeth so there is room to place crowns over them. Then, we take impressions of your mouth to send to a dental lab. While they craft your restoration, we place a temporary bridge to protect your gums and teeth. You’ll return a few weeks later to receive your permanent bridge.
For implant-retained bridges, we’ll refer you to a specialist to place the implants. They’ll fuse with your jawbone over three to six months. After this process is complete, you’ll come back to our office and receive your bridge, which should last for years to come.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are one of the easiest ways to replace missing teeth in Green Hills. Some of their advantages include:
- Preventing surrounding teeth from drifting out of place
- Evenly distributing the force of your bite
- Restoring your ability to smile confidently, speak clearly, and chew your favorite foods easily
- Being able to last 10-15 years with proper maintenance
Dental Bridges FAQs
Are you ready to fill the gaps in your smile for good? Our team at Green Hills Dental Center would love to help! After all, Dr. Kirby has spent the last 10+ years helping patients rebuild their smile and restore their bite. If you have specific questions you would like answered before moving forward, don’t hesitate to schedule a one-on-one appointment. However, if you would like a bit more information before contacting our office, we have also listed dental bridge FAQs in Green Hills below!
How Should I Care for My Dental Bridges?
Thanks to high-quality materials and the latest techniques, dental bridges can last 10+ years with proper care! Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that you brush and floss them daily to prevent decay and gum disease, which can compromise their integrity. It is also a good idea to avoid poor dental habits that can significantly hinder their lifespan, like using tobacco products and opening things with your mouth. And, of course, make sure to visit our office frequently for routine exams and professional cleanings!
Are Dental Bridges Painful?
When it comes to dental care, one of the first questions we are often asked is, “Will it hurt?” If you were wondering something similar, you’ll be happy to know that Dr. Kirby and our team are united behind our mission to provide you with the care you need in a comfortable environment. Once you return home, you may experience some discomfort from the inflammation and bruising. However, our team will stay in touch with you and provide you with aftercare instructions to make your recovery as pain-free as possible!
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are an advanced tooth replacement option for patients who are missing one or more permanent teeth. To ensure they are successful in the short and long-term, Dr. Kirby will conduct an initial exam to ensure you don’t have any untreated health conditions (like a severe infection) that will compromise treatment. However, if you do, our team will work with you to restore your oral health so we can safely rebuild your smile for long-lasting results.
How Do Dental Bridges and Dental Implants Differ?
Dental bridges and implants are both safe, effective, natural-looking tooth replacement solutions for patients whose smile or bite has been negatively impacted by missing teeth. However, their approach to rebuilding smiles is what makes them uniquely different. While dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone for support, dental bridges require assistance from the adjacent teeth.
How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost?
To determine the cost, it is important to consider your unique dental needs. How many teeth need to be replaced? Do you need any additional treatments, like periodontal therapy, beforehand? Will you need more than one dental bridge to achieve your smile goals? Fortunately, you can find out the exact price by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Kirby. He will conduct a thorough exam, discuss the different treatment options with you, and provide you with an exact quote for you to review.