BRIDGES
WE CREATE CONFIDENT SMILES, ONE PATIENT AT A TIME.
WHAT IT DOES
Missing teeth can be unsightly and embarrassing, but Dripping Springs patients like you don’t have to live with them. A dental bridge is a great way to compensate for missing teeth with a natural-looking replacement.
Dr. Whisenant will help you decide what kind of bridge is the best fit for you, but traditional bridges are fixed, meaning they can’t be removed, and are made of porcelain fused to metal. They include two crowns that are placed over anchoring teeth, or abutment teeth, and however many replacement teeth are necessary. Dental bridges are durable and can last a long time, but like many dental restorations, they are typically replaced or re-cemented after years of use.
HOW IT HELPS
Fixed bridges can improve a variety of dental issues:
Replace missing teeth
Preserve symmetrical face shape
Maintain or restore chewing and speaking
Maintain or restore your smile
Substitute for removable partial denture
HOW WE DO IT
Fixed dental bridges are applied over the course of two or more visits. First, the two anchoring teeth will be prepared to receive crowns through the removal of some enamel on the surface. Afterward, Dr. Whisenant will take precise impressions, or molds, of your teeth and send them to the dental laboratory where your crown will be created. A temporary bridge will be created for use in the meantime. In a few weeks, your permanent bridge will be ready for a fitting. It will be carefully checked and adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance.
Some patients may receive temporary cement, allowing for a trial period to let your teeth and gum tissue get used to your new dental fixture before permanent cement is applied at a later visit.
Dr. Whisenant will finish the application procedure by giving your thorough instructions for proper hygiene and care for your new bridge. This includes brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups to ensure the functional longevity and comfort of your fixed bridge.