Dental Bridges – Powell, OH
Get Your Smile Back with Custom Tooth Replacement
Tooth loss affects more people than you think – roughly 180 million Americans today are missing at least one tooth. Thankfully, tooth replacement solutions are more advanced than ever, including dedicated dental bridges from Dr. Ryan Eskridge at Wedgewood Complete Dentistry. Whether you’re missing single or multiple consecutive teeth, dental bridges in Powell can help you protect your long-term oral health, enjoy your favorite foods again, and smile with confidence. Call our office today to set up your very first appointment!
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a complex dental restoration designed to replace single or multiple teeth at a time, depending on your needs. Bridges consist of several crowns fused together to create a larger tooth replacement. The crowns on either end of the restoration are hollowed out so they can attach to modified teeth sitting adjacent to the gap in your mouth. The crown in between your teeth (or pontic) actually fills the gap to make your smile complete.
Types of Dental Bridges
Prior to receiving your bridge, it is vital that you complete a consultation so you can discuss with Dr. Eskridge your needs and preferences. Additionally, he’ll need to complete a thorough exam to confirm the severity of your tooth loss as well as make sure no existing dental disease is present. For example, tooth decay and gum disease must be handled beforehand. He’ll also break down the two most common types of dental bridges to choose from: traditional and implant-supported.
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional bridge relies on neighboring teeth to hold it in place, which means they will need to be modified before it can be attached. While this is the cheaper and faster option, some people may not want to change the shape of their healthy teeth.
Implant Bridge
An implant bridge relies on dental implants to keep it in place. These are surgically placed into the jaw and do require more time to receive. Not only are implant bridges more expensive, but you’ll also need to have sufficient bone tissue for the implants to fuse properly with your jawbone.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Bridge
The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the more likely you are to experience the side effects that come with tooth loss. By getting a dental bridge, you can effectively:
- Prevent teeth from shifting out of place, resulting in misalignment and jaw issues
- Boost confidence in your smile and overall appearance
- Make basic tasks like eating and speaking easier
- Decrease your risk of other oral health problems
You don’t have to settle for tooth loss for life. You can begin your smile rehabilitation today by setting up a consultation at Wedgewood Complete Dentistry. Our dentists and team members would love to speak with you directly, so give us a call to get started!
Dental Bridges FAQs
How Many Teeth Can a Dental Bridge Replace?
Dental bridges in Powell are used to replace one or more lost teeth in a row. Although bridges are effective in treating consecutive tooth loss, they are recommended for 1-3 missing teeth. Although it is possible to replace more teeth with a traditional fixed bridge, longer restorations can be less stable, which can damage your abutment teeth over time. If you have several lost teeth in a row, your dentist may recommend a partial denture or an implant-supported bridge.
Are Dental Implants Cheaper Than a Bridge?
You can't put a price on the benefits you'll gain by investing in dental implants. A dental implant replaces the entire tooth structure, including the root. This provides the next best thing to a real tooth. It also doesn't rely on adjacent teeth for support. Your jawbone will fuse to the implant to keep it in place. With over a 95% success rate and a lifespan of 30 years or more, a dental implant can pay for itself because you won't have to budget for replacements, like with a traditional bridge. You'll benefit from a solution that looks and feels natural with the potential to last for a lifetime.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
The average lifespan of a fixed bridge is about 10 years, but many factors will influence the life expectancy of your restoration. Your dentist in Powell will explain how to get the most from your investment, like brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care will keep your mouth healthy and ensure your bridge lasts for a decade or longer. Limit your consumption of hard and chewy foods to avoid wear and tear on your restoration. Ask your dentist for a nightguard if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth.
Can I Use My Dental Insurance for a Bridge?
Your dental insurance may cover your consultation and diagnostic services after a co-payment. Although every situation differs, most policies can be used to lower the cost of dental bridges. After meeting your annual deductible, your dental insurance can pay 50% to 80% of the expenses of any medically necessary treatments, including your bridge. We will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize your coverage to lower your out-of-pocket costs. A member of our dental team will review your payment options for any remaining expenses, like monthly installments with CareCredit.
