Are your lost teeth causing problems? Replace your lost teeth with dental bridges!
Dental bridges are an ideal dental restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth. Dental bridges “bridge” the gap in a smile. They are anchored to neighboring teeth by either dental crowns or dental implants. People who are missing teeth usually have difficulty speaking and chewing. Missing teeth are also a source of embarrassment, causing people to hide their smiles and avoid social situations.
Not many people realize how important teeth are to the appearance of their face. Teeth provide support to your lips, cheeks, and Jaw. Without them, the face can sag or droop, giving it an aged appearance.
Dr. Alexander provides dental bridges in Jacksonville FL. It is very important to replace missing teeth promptly. Once you lose a tooth, the bone begins to deteriorate. The longer the area is exposed, the more likely the bone is to suffer a significant loss. Exposed gum is also more susceptible to gum disease. We aim to restore your smile by providing a replacement option that is right for you.
Bridgework secured by dental implants provides a stronger, more effective restoration. Though a larger investment upfront, there are significant long-term benefits. Dr. Alexander will help you decide what type of dental bridge is right for you.
Alternatives to Dental Bridges
With the use of advanced technology and in-depth knowledge of restoration, Dr. Alexander can help improve the function and aesthetic of your smile. At Alexander Dentistry, we understand that patients who are missing teeth may experience difficulty speaking and eating comfortably.
Missing Teeth Replacement Options
Dental Implant: Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically attached to your jaw bone. To receive dental implants, patients need to have a substantial amount of healthy jaw bone structure. Dr. Alexander will perform a comprehensive exam to determine if dental implants are right for you.
Implant-supported Bridge: The implant-supported dental bridge is ideal for patients who are missing several consecutive teeth. Traditionally, dental bridges rely on neighboring teeth for support. However, due to recent advancements in dentistry, we can fix dental bridges into place using dental implants. This creates a permanent restoration that does not require special maintenance.
Dentures: Dentures replace either a full bottom or top arch of teeth. Dr. Alexander will take impressions of our teeth to ensure your dentures fit comfortably in your mouth. Dentures can also be permanently attached using All-on-Four dental implants.
All-On-Four Implant Dentures: With as few as four strategically placed dental implants, patients can receive fixed dentures. All-On-Four may be ideal for patients who may not have been ideal candidates for traditional dental implants. The All-On-Four has made permanent dentures available to a wider range of patients.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Dental bridges replace one or multiple consecutive missing teeth. There are many different kinds. Read the answers to these questions to learn more.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
Most people don’t feel pain during the dental bridge procedure because the dentist numbs your mouth before starting. Afterward, you may feel a little soreness or sensitivity where the teeth were prepared. This is normal and usually goes away within a few days. You might wear a temporary bridge while waiting for your permanent one, which may cause mild discomfort.
How long does a dental bridge last?
A dental bridge can last 10 to 15 years or even longer with good care. The key to a long-lasting bridge is caring for it and the natural teeth supporting it. With the right care, your bridge can stay strong and look great for many years.
Does insurance cover dental bridges?
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of a bridge. Coverage varies depending on your plan and provider. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance company before starting treatment. Our office also accepts third-party financing through CareCredit.
What if a tooth holding my bridge gets damaged?
If one of the supporting teeth breaks or gets a cavity, your dentist must treat it. In some cases, the bridge may need to be removed and replaced. Catching problems early during regular checkups can help prevent damage. Keeping your teeth healthy is key to keeping your bridge strong.
Will people be able to tell I have a dental bridge?
No, most people won’t notice that you have a dental bridge. Today’s bridges are made with materials that closely match the color and shape of your natural teeth. We will carefully design the bridge to blend in with your smile. Once in place, the bridge looks like a real tooth or teeth. Unless you tell someone, they probably won’t know it’s there.
Can you eat normally with a dental bridge?
Once your dental bridge is in place and your mouth has adjusted, you can eat most foods again. At first, it’s a good idea to eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. This gives your mouth time to get used to the new bridge without putting too much pressure on it. As you become more comfortable, you can start eating a wider variety of foods. Be careful with sticky or hard foods like caramel or ice, which could damage your bridge or supporting teeth.
Schedule an appointment to learn more about options for replacing missing teeth in our Jacksonville dental office. Dr. Alexander provides patient-focused dental care to patients with a wide range of dental concerns. Dr. Alexander and his dedicated team will help you find the right replacement option for your missing teeth.