Approximately 120 million people in the United States are missing at least one tooth. While tooth loss is devastating, the good thing is that your missing teeth can be replaced.
Advanced Dental Associates can replace missing teeth with a dental bridge in San Antonio, TX. Furthermore, we provide additional restorative dental procedures to replace missing or damaged teeth.
The Importance of Replacing a Missing Tooth
Replacing your missing teeth as soon as possible is essential following tooth loss. It would help if you had your teeth to eat properly and speak effectively. They are necessary for keeping your bite in proper alignment.
Teeth are also essential to maintain your face’s shape and overall appearance. The sooner you replace missing teeth, the fewer effects of tooth loss you suffer.
Dental Bridges in San Antonio, TX
With a dental bridge, we can replace up to three missing teeth. This restoration essentially bridges the space between your healthy teeth, filling them with false teeth. These false teeth take the place of your missing teeth. With your bridge in place, the functions of your missing teeth are restored, as is your appearance.
Traditional Fixed Bridges
A traditional fixed bridge is one of the most common types of bridges. This bridge uses the teeth on each side of the gap as anchors. A tooth crown is what anchors the false teeth into place.
A traditional fixed bridge is used when you have healthy teeth on both sides of the missing teeth. To get a conventional fixed bridge, the surrounding teeth need to be prepared, just like the process of placing dental crowns.
Cantilever Bridges
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional fixed bridge. Instead of using two crowns, however, this treatment uses crowns only on one side of the false teeth. It is used when no natural teeth are on one side of the space.
For example, you may have a crown already on one adjacent tooth. The tooth used to support the bridge is prepared just like it is for a crown or a fixed bridge. The biggest issue with this type of bridge is that it can cause tooth fractures or loosened crowns.
Maryland, or Resin Bonded Bridges
A Maryland bridge is also sometimes called a resin-bonded bridge. It is a bit different from a fixed bridge. Instead of using crowns to anchor the bridge, it uses a metal framework. The framework attaches to the backsides of the adjacent teeth with dental cement.
This prevents the need to have the anchoring teeth prepared. However, the bonding agent can come loose under too much force, causing your bridge to fall out of place.
A Newer Alternative to Traditional Treatment
In addition to the traditional bridges, there are now dental implants. With this treatment, false teeth are anchored in place by small posts implanted into your jawbone. Not only do you avoid the need for having the adjacent teeth prepared, but your teeth are securely held in place.
Additionally, dental Implants provide a permanent solution. If you’re looking for an implant-supported denture solution, we also offer All-On-4.
Once your dental bridge has been securely placed, you can return to normal activities without worry. The bridge will look and function just like regular teeth.
If you have suffered tooth loss, replacement is needed quickly. Call Advanced Dental Associates at (210) 655-2753 to schedule your appointment and discuss your options today.