A missing tooth affects more than your appearance; it can hurt your ability to speak and chew, too. Joe Eckford Jr., DDS at Houston Precise Dental Care in Houston can help restore your smile by placing a natural-looking and feeling dental bridge. Contact the office online or by phone to learn how a dental bridge can improve your oral health.
Bridge Q & A
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge, also called a fixed partial denture, is a device used to replace missing teeth. It works by attaching artificial teeth to your natural teeth on either side of a missing tooth. Your bridge, made of gold, porcelain or a combination of these materials, can be put in place permanently or can be removable depending on your needs.
Why should I get a bridge?
Your teeth work together to help you perform important functions like chewing and speaking. A missing tooth in the front of your mouth can make it harder to speak, while a missing tooth in the back of your mouth can make it difficult to chew food.
Missing teeth also affect your appearance, of course. You may feel less confident in your smile. Even when you aren’t smiling, a missing tooth may cause your lips or cheek to sink in, giving you an older appearance.
Most importantly, a missing tooth increases stress on your other teeth. One missing tooth can weaken your gums and other teeth, leading to more damage in the future.
How are dental bridges placed?
Your bridge is placed over the course of two appointments. First, Dr. Eckford shapes the teeth around your missing tooth so they can hold the bridge in place.
Dr. Eckford then takes an impression of your teeth. This impression is sent to a lab where your bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth and blend in with your other teeth.
At your next appointment, Dr. Eckford places the bridge over your teeth. Your natural teeth are covered by crowns that support the false tooth in the middle. If you have a fixed bridge, it will be cemented into place. Metal attachments to the other teeth hold a removable bridge in place.
How do I take care of my dental bridge?
Just like your natural teeth, your bridge needs to be brushed and flossed every day. It is important to keep all your surrounding teeth healthy since they support your bridge. If you have a removable bridge, it can be soaked in specialized cleansers when you sleep.
Regain your complete smile with a natural-looking dental bridge. Call Houston Precise Dental Care or schedule an appointment online today.