Dental Bridges
Kingwood TX
Serving the Kingwood community & surrounding areas since 1998
Dental Bridges Kingwood TX
Serving the Kingwood community & surrounding areas since 1998
Dental Bridges For Missing Teeth
Over time, missing teeth can affect both your oral health and your quality of life. Nearby teeth may shift into the open space, the jawbone may begin to deteriorate, and the risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss can increase. Missing teeth can also make it more difficult to bite, chew, maintain proper oral hygiene, and feel confident.
Several treatments are available for replacing missing teeth, including dental implants, dentures, and bridges. The right option will depend on how many teeth are missing, the health of the surrounding teeth and gums, and other factors. A dental bridge may be recommended for patients missing one or more teeth.
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that fills a gap between teeth with replacement teeth supported by crowns or dental implants. Bridges may be made from porcelain, zirconia, metal alloys, or a combination of materials selected to provide strength and a natural appearance.
To ensure you have a clear understanding of what is involved in the dental bridge procedure and/or to determine if dental bridges are right for you, please refer to the information provided below. If you have additional questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 281-359-9100 or visit our office at 1542 Green Oak Pl, Kingwood, TX 77339.
Types of Dental Bridges
The four primary types of dental bridges include the following:
- Traditional dental bridge: The most common type of dental bridge, the traditional dental bridge is used when patients have at least one natural tooth on either side of the gap and involves adhering the pontic (tooth) in place using cemented dental crowns on the surrounding teeth.
- Maryland dental bridge: Similar to a traditional dental bridge, the Maryland dental bridge differs only in that a porcelain or metal framework is bonded to the backs of the surrounding teeth.
- Cantilever dental bridge: Similar to a traditional dental bridge, the cantilever dental bridge differs only in that the pontic is adhered with a crown on only one of the surrounding teeth, not both.
- Implant-supported dental bridge: The most stable and strongest dental bridge option, implant-supported dental bridges adhere the dental bridge using an implant, rather than a crown or framework.
The Dental Bridge Process
If your initial examination indicates that you are a good candidate for a dental bridge, the process will begin with the preparation of the abutment teeth, which involves removing parts of the enamel to make room for the crown that will be placed over them. Once this is complete, a digital or physical impression will be made of the newly shaped teeth so an appropriate bridge can be designed. While this customized bridge is being made, you will be given a temporary bridge to ensure your gums and teeth are protected during this time.
At your next visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and the new bridge will be placed and assessed to ensure it fits properly. Depending on your particular case, it may be necessary to schedule several visits to ensure the bite and fit are both optimal. Once you and your dentist are satisfied that the dental bridge is properly positioned, the bridge is cemented into place.
Aftercare Following a Dental Bridge
If dental bridges are not properly cared for, existing teeth can develop an infection, become irritated, and eventually start to decay. To prevent this from occurring, continue consistently following good oral hygiene practices. In addition to brushing and flossing twice daily (at a minimum), be mindful of the types of food and beverages you consume, and avoid foods or substances that can negatively impact your oral health (chewing tobacco, staining foods, sugary drinks). There are also tools that are specially designed to clean the bridge, such as water flossers, dental picks, and threaded floss. In addition to practicing consistent at-home maintenance, it is equally important to schedule regular dental cleanings every six months, or more frequently, depending upon your unique oral health needs. If you follow these general guidelines, you will enjoy a healthy smile for many years to come!
Bridge Cost & Insurance Coverage
The cost of having dental bridges will depend upon how many teeth are needed to fill the gap, the difficulty of placement, the type of materials used, the type of bridge you select, and what insurance coverage from your dental plan can be applied. It is important to be aware that you are fully responsible for all fees of treatment, and payment is due at the time of service, regardless of your insurance coverage. Monthly payment plans can be arranged, but this will need to be established prior to the procedure being performed. Although we may not have a contractual arrangement with your provider, our staff is happy to assist with processing your insurance claim to ensure that you maximize your benefits and receive the high-quality care you need and deserve. For your convenience, we accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.
Schedule an Appointment Today
At Kingwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide personalized dental care focused on your oral health and the cosmetic appearance of your smile. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality treatment in a welcoming environment. We also take the time to explain your procedure and answer any questions so you feel informed and comfortable throughout your care.
To learn more about dental bridges or to schedule an appointment, call us at 281-359-9100. You can also visit our office at 1542 Green Oak Pl, Kingwood, TX 77339. We look forward to helping you attain the smile you’ve always wanted.