Dental Bridge Procedure in Fort Worth, TX
Smile with Confidence Again
Are you missing teeth and feeling self-conscious? A dental bridge can help restore your smile and improve your oral function. Our experienced dentists in Fort Worth, TX specialize in providing high-quality dental bridge procedures tailored to your unique needs. Call 817-236-8771 to learn more.
How Dental Bridges Work
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that replaces missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth (pontic) to the surrounding natural teeth (abutments). This bridges the gap and restores your smile’s appearance and function. Unlike removable dentures, dental bridges are fixed in place, providing a more stable and natural-feeling solution.
The Dental Bridge Process
- Consultation and Evaluation: We’ll conduct a thorough examination of your oral health to determine if a dental bridge is the right option for you. We’ll also discuss your preferences and goals for your smile.
- Preparing Abutment Teeth: Your abutment teeth, the natural teeth on either side of the gap, will be prepared to securely hold the bridge. This typically involves removing a small amount of enamel.
- Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being crafted, we’ll place a temporary bridge to protect your abutment teeth and maintain your smile’s appearance during the healing process.
- Fitting and Placement: Once your permanent bridge is ready, we’ll carefully fit it to your abutment teeth and cement it into place.
- Follow-up Care: We’ll schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure the bridge fits comfortably. We’ll also provide instructions for proper care, including brushing, flossing, and avoiding certain foods.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restores Your Smile: A dental bridge can significantly improve your smile’s appearance and boost your confidence.
- Improves Oral Function: By replacing missing teeth, a dental bridge can help you chew and speak more comfortably.
- Maintains Dental Alignment: Dental bridges can help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
- Long-lasting: With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dental bridge procedure safe?
While dental bridges are generally safe and well-tolerated procedures, there are a few potential risks and complications to be aware of:
- Sensitivity or Discomfort: After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the area around the bridge. This is typically mild and subsides within a few days.
- Gum Irritation: In some cases, gum irritation may occur around the bridge. This can usually be managed with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
- Allergic Reactions: While rare, it’s possible to have an allergic reaction to the materials used in a dental bridge. If you have known allergies, discuss them with your dentist beforehand.
Will the procedure to replace missing teeth be painful?
No, getting a dental bridge isn’t painful. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the teeth being treated, ensuring that you experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. After the procedure, there may be some mild soreness or sensitivity around your new dental bridge from the dental laboratory and adjacent teeth, but this is generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Schedule a Consultation at Lake Country Dental Today
Our dentists will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and personalized recommendations based on your needs and circumstances. Dental bridges are a convenient, non-invasive treatment that can help restore your smile’s beauty and functionality. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Snider, give our Fort Worth office a call at (817) 236-8771. You can also request an appointment online by filling out our convenient contact form.