Dental Bridges – Tucson, AZ
An Affordable Way to Replace Missing Teeth
Tooth loss is a problem that affects millions of people across the country. Approximately 178 million Americans are missing at least one of their teeth. The good news is that just because you’re missing a tooth doesn’t mean that you need to go the rest of your life without it. Dr. Jay Lopez provides high-quality dental bridges in Tucson to fill in gaps left behind by one or more missing teeth in a row. If you have gaps in your smile that leave you insecure about your smile, give us a call to learn more or schedule an initial consultation for an affordable way to replace missing teeth!
Why Choose Dr. Jay Lopez for Dental Bridges?
- Dentist with Over Two Decades of Experience
- Bridges That Can Last 15+ Years
- CareCredit Financing Available
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a type of restoration that is used to replace used to replace consecutive missing teeth. This could be anywhere from one tooth to four teeth in a row! The bridge is composed of two crowns and a number of replacement teeth known as “pontics.” The crowns are anchored on the adjacent teeth or implants (depending on the type of bridge that you opt for). Bridges can be made out of a variety of different materials, but porcelain is usually the best choice for a strong and natural-looking restoration.
Types of Dental Bridges
If Dr. Lopez determines that you are a good candidate for a dental bridge, you have two different types that you could end up with: a traditional bridge and an implant bridge. Here is what each one entails:
Traditional Bridge
If you still have healthy teeth on each side of the gap that needs to be filled in, a traditional bridge is ideal. The teeth that support crowns are known as “abutment teeth,” and they need to be altered slightly for the bridge to fit properly. This type of restoration can be placed in just a few visits and are typically less pricy than their implant alternative.
Implant Bridge
Dental implant bridges can be used where there are three or more missing teeth in a row. Instead of being placed over abutment teeth, the crowns are placed on the titanium posts that merge with the jaw and act as artificial tooth roots. Implant bridges last longer than traditional bridges on average and help to prevent jawbone deterioration in the future as a result of tooth loss.
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is a relatively simple and cost-effective option for replacing missing teeth. In addition to providing strength and stability for chewing and speaking, they help to maintain the shape of your face. They also keep your natural teeth from shifting out of place and causing misalignment issues in the future.
Dental Bridges FAQs
Can You Take a Dental Bridge Out?
While you may have heard of “removable bridges,” this is a misnomer for partial dentures designed to be regularly taken out and cleaned by the patient. True dental bridges are designed to only be removable by a qualified dentist such as Dr. Lopez, so you should not be able to take your bridge out on your own. If you find that your bridge is loose or you are able to take it out without the help of an oral health professional, please contact us to schedule an appointment at our Tucson office so you can have your device repaired.
Is Getting a Dental Bridge Painful?
The process of placing a dental bridge always begins with the patient receiving an appropriate anesthetic to ensure their comfort, and you may also receive a sedation treatment if you need a little more help remaining calm and still throughout the procedure. When you are suitably numb, we will place your restorations, meaning we secure your device to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap for a traditional bridge or install titanium pieces in your jawbone for an implant-supported appliance. After receiving your bridge, you’ll need to adhere to a detailed list of aftercare instructions to prevent infections and ensure a smooth healing process. Receiving a dental bridge can prevent a host of uncomfortable oral health problems by protecting the gums from injury or reducing dental drift.
How Long Should My Dental Bridge Last?
A dental bridge that receives excellent care can usually last between five and fifteen years, but its precise lifespan can be influenced by the material it is made from. While appliances made from metal may last longer than ceramic ones, this is not always the case and the difference may be negligible. The most important factor in the longevity of your bridge is how well you take care of it with proper oral hygiene, smart eating decisions, and mindful chewing habits. Bridges replacing the front teeth may last longer than those replacing the back teeth since they probably won’t experience as much pressure during the chewing process. However, implant bridges can often last significantly longer than traditional appliances.
How Many Teeth Can a Dental Bridge Replace?
A dental bridge can replace one to four missing teeth in a row, but most will replace only one or two since those that restore more than that can become unstable. However, an implant bridge may be able to support more teeth since it will be firmly anchored to the patient’s jawbone. Dr. Lopez will be happy to help you determine the best dental bridge for you after your consultation at his Tucson office.