At Henrich Dental, we provide advanced cosmetic and restorative dental procedures. Dental bridges are an effective way to replace one or more missing teeth. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that the restoration fits perfectly in your mouth and last for years. Dr. Henrich places dental bridges in Tulsa, OK, for patients in Tulsa County, Creek County, Osage County, and beyond.
Why Replace a Lose Tooth?
Losing teeth is one of the most traumatic medical instances for a dental patient. Avoiding tooth loss is one of the single biggest aims in all of dentistry, making the loss of teeth an incredibly discouraging event. Thankfully, the replacement options for teeth have grown over the years.
When someone loses teeth now, it’s a matter of finding the most comfortable and affordable replacement solution. Left unaddressed, tooth loss will hinder eating, speaking, and even smiling. Thanks to dental bridges, function can be fully restored.
What is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge contains prosthetic teeth that replace missing teeth. The “bridge” is anchored in the mouth in a natural position by using healthy teeth to stabilize the ends of the device. People who need a bridge will find that it serves many useful functions:
- Supports the lips and cheeks like natural teeth do
- Decrease stress on the tissues and gums
- Reduces the risk of gum disease
- Improves speech
Am I a Candidate for a Bridge?
If you have one or more missing teeth, you might be a good candidate for a dental bridge. The right type of bridge for you depends on your oral health and jawbone strength.
A traditional bridge is best if you have healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. These teeth will support the bridge by holding dental crowns.
An implant bridge is a good choice if you are missing several teeth in a row. Instead of using nearby teeth, this bridge is supported by dental implants placed in your jawbone. You need to have enough healthy bone to hold the implants in place.
The Dental Bridge Process
The entire dental bridge process will begin with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Henrich will review your dental history with you and see if you are a qualified candidate.
He will take dental impressions of your mouth and existing teeth. Then, he will use these measurements to create your dental bridges. Placing a dental bridge will require several visits with us.
Dr. Henrich will take dental impressions of your smile and teeth to ensure that your dental bridge fits comfortably. Technicians at a dental lab will craft your bridge customized to the impressions taken by Dr. Henrich.
He will place a crown on the teeth on both sides of the gap. These two teeth are where he will attach the bridge.
A local dental lab will construct the dental bridge of non-precious alloys, porcelain, gold alloys, or a combination of these materials. Bridges are one of the most convenient teeth replacement options available.
Once complete, Dr. Henrich will attach them to real teeth, and they will function the same as real teeth. You will not need to remove it and you can care for your dental bridge like you take care of natural teeth. All you have to do is brush and floss as you normally would.
The procedure for replacing teeth with a dental bridge is convenient and comfortable. Once the bridge is in place, it functions like real teeth. Over time, you can speak, eat, and feel more confident.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Dr. Henrich also offers implant-supported dental bridges in Tulsa, OK. They can replace old ill-fitting bridges for a more permanent solution. He can permanently secure a dental bridge using dental implants for a stable result. We may recommend using a dental implant or an implant-supported bridge whenever appropriate.
A permanent implant-supported bridge will give you back the ability to eat and speak with ease and confidence. You won’t have to worry about them unexpectedly falling out of your mouth!
If we use dental implants to secure the bridge, our dentist must first place the implant post(s) surgically. A healing period of several months is necessary for the best long-term outcome. Dr. Henrich will place a temporary appliance during this time to restore function.
Once the soft tissues are done healing, or when our dentist prepares the existing anchor teeth dental crowns, he will secure the final bridge. Dr. Henrich will adjust your custom-made bridge to match your unique smile.
Dental Bridges FAQs
Learn more about dental bridges in Tulsa, OK, with answers to these common patient questions:
How many teeth can be in a bridge?
The amount of teeth in a dental bridge can vary. Traditional bridges can hold one to four teeth depending on the gap. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge. The number of teeth in it depends on the where the missing are and how many are missing.
Are dental bridges removable?
Two types of dental bridges are available. They can be fixed, meaning that they are permanent, or they can be removable. If you want to be able to remove your bridge than making sure to choose a removable bridge, then making sure to avoid fixed bridges may be a better option for you.
Does a dental bridge feel natural?
Yes- your dental bridge should feel almost identical to your natural teeth. Many patients say that their bridge feels better than their natural teeth. Typically this is when the bridge fixes damaged teeth or gaps between teeth.
What can’t you eat with a dental bridge?
With a dental bridge, you should be able to eat normally. However, you want to avoid sticky foods like gum and candy at first. Foods high in sugar, coffee, soda, and wine are also more likely to cause problems.
How long do dental bridges last?
Traditional bridges can last 5 to 15 years. Implant-supported bridges often last longer because they use the support of stable implants. If you brush, floss, and visit our office regularly, it can ensure your restoration lasts.
How much do dental bridges cost?
The cost of your dental bridge will depend on the type. Implant bridges can cost more than traditional bridges because they require surgery. However, implant bridges last longer and provide more benefits. Also, if you need pretreatments like tooth extractions or bone grafting, it can add to your treatment cost.
Schedule a Dental Exam for a Dental Bridge
Dr. Frank Henrich offers comprehensive and complete dental services for patients with missing teeth. Whether you have one or more missing teeth, our team can work with you to find the best solution for your smile.
Contact our dentist for dental bridges in Tulsa, OK today. Learn more about our cosmetic and restorative options. Give us a call at (918) 262-4731 or schedule an appointment online today.