Dental bridges are a proven restorative solution for the approximately 120 million Americans missing at least one tooth. Advanced Dental Associates specializes in replacing missing teeth in San Antonio, TX, restoring both the function and aesthetics of your smile.
Tooth loss is not merely a cosmetic issue; it can lead to shifting teeth, bite misalignment, and changes in facial shape. Our team provides custom-fitted bridges to ensure you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
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Why Is Replacing a Missing Tooth Important?
Replacing a missing tooth is essential to prevent long-term oral health complications. The gap created by a lost tooth allows remaining teeth to drift out of position, which disrupts your bite alignment.
Facial structure relies on teeth for support. Delaying treatment can lead to a sunken facial appearance and increased difficulty in speaking clearly. Immediate restoration minimizes these risks and preserves your natural jaw contours.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration designed to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. This restoration uses artificial teeth (pontics) anchored securely to the surrounding healthy teeth or dental implants on either side of the space.
Once placed, the dental bridge restores your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently, effectively replicating the function and appearance of natural teeth. Advanced Dental Associates can typically replace up to three consecutive missing teeth using this method.
The restoration consists of false teeth (pontics) anchored by healthy teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Once placed, the bridge functions like your natural dentition, allowing you to return to normal daily activities.
What Types of Dental Bridges Are Available?
The specific type of bridge recommended depends on the location of the gap and the health of your adjacent teeth. Our San Antonio dentists offer several reliable options:
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Traditional Fixed Bridges: These restorations are the most common choice. They use dental crowns placed on the healthy teeth (anchors) on both sides of the gap to hold the false tooth in place.
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Cantilever Bridges: This option is used when a natural tooth is available on only one side of the gap. The risk of leverage-induced fractures is slightly higher, so careful case selection is required.
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Maryland Bridges: Resin-bonded bridges utilize a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. Minimal preparation is needed, preserving more natural tooth structure compared to fixed bridges.
Are Dental Implants a Better Option?
Dental implants are often considered a superior modern alternative to traditional bridges. This treatment anchors false teeth using small titanium posts implanted directly into the jawbone.
Key advantages of implants include:
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Preservation: No need to grind down healthy adjacent teeth for crowns.
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Stability: The posts fuse with the bone, providing a permanent hold.
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Versatility: We also offer All-On-4 for patients seeking implant-supported full arch solutions.
Schedule Your Appointment in San Antonio
Restoring your smile should be a priority for your health and well-being. Advanced Dental Associates is ready to help you navigate your replacement options.
If you have suffered tooth loss, replacement is needed quickly. Schedule your appointment and discuss your options today.