Dental Bridges in Richardson, TX
Custom dental bridges in Richardson offer a reliable, long-lasting way to replace missing teeth. Securely attached, tailored to you, and designed to look completely natural.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It uses crowns on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, or on dental implants, to hold a natural-looking replacement tooth in place. Unlike a removable partial, a fixed bridge stays in your mouth at all times.
Dental bridges in Richardson are a reliable and long-lasting way to replace missing teeth. Unlike removable prosthetics, a fixed bridge is securely attached to nearby teeth, so there is no need to take it out for cleaning. Each bridge is tailored to the individual, resulting in a natural and authentic look.
Generally, fixed bridges can last for several years before they need to be replaced. With good home care and regular checkups, many patients enjoy their bridges for a long time.
At Gentle Touch Dentistry Richardson, we design every bridge to match the shape and shade of your surrounding teeth, so your restored smile looks and feels like your own.
Why choose a dental bridge?
Why is a dental bridge necessary?
If you have a missing tooth and want to avoid dental implant surgery, or are not eligible for it, a dental bridge is a great alternative. It restores your smile's appearance and function while preventing neighboring teeth from shifting or overcrowding.
Who is eligible for a dental bridge?
Our dental team will assess your teeth to determine whether a fixed bridge is suitable for you. The bridge is positioned over the two adjacent teeth to ensure a precise fit and secure placement, so those anchor teeth need to be healthy and strong.
Implant-supported bridges for longer spans
Larger bridges are typically less stable. If we find that a traditional bridge alone may not provide enough support, for example when several teeth in a row are missing, we may suggest using implants to support it.
Dental Bridges at a Glance
- Who it's for
- Patients missing one or more teeth in a row, with healthy neighboring teeth or implant support
- Treatment time
- Typically two visits: a temporary bridge first, then the permanent bridge
- Anesthesia
- Local anesthesia; nitrous oxide and oral sedation available
- Recovery
- Most people return to normal activities right away; mild sensitivity is common at first
- How long it lasts
- Generally several years or more with good care
- Insurance
- Often partially covered by dental insurance; in-network with many PPO plans
What happens during the dental bridge procedure?
Getting a traditional fixed bridge usually takes two appointments.
- 1
Numbing. We apply a local anesthetic to numb the area so you stay comfortable.
- 2
Preparing the anchor teeth. The teeth on either side of the gap are gently shaped to create space for the crowns that will hold your bridge.
- 3
Impressions. We take impressions used to make both a temporary and a permanent bridge.
- 4
Temporary bridge. You leave the first visit with a temporary bridge in place to protect your teeth while your permanent bridge is made.
- 5
Placing the permanent bridge. At your second appointment, the temporary is removed and the permanent bridge is securely placed with a dental-grade adhesive.
- 6
Polish and adjust. We polish the bridge, make any needed adjustments to your bite, and show you how to care for it with brushing and flossing.
Is a dental bridge or a dental implant better for me?
Both are excellent, fixed ways to replace missing teeth. A bridge is non-surgical and usually completed in two visits, but it relies on reshaping the neighboring teeth. An implant replaces the tooth root, helps preserve the jawbone and leaves neighboring teeth untouched, but takes several months. Your dentist will help you weigh both.
A traditional bridge can be a great choice if the teeth next to the gap already have large fillings or would benefit from crowns anyway, or if you prefer to avoid surgery.
An implant may be preferred if the neighboring teeth are healthy and untouched, or if you want to help preserve bone where the tooth is missing. For longer gaps, an implant-supported bridge combines both approaches for added stability.
Not sure which is right for you? We'll review your x-rays, your gum health and your goals, and explain every option in plain language. You can also read more about dental crowns in Richardson, which form the anchors of a traditional bridge, or explore dentures if you are missing many teeth.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
A little daily care goes a long way toward helping your bridge last.
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, paying attention to the gumline around the anchor teeth
- Clean under the replacement tooth every day with a floss threader, super floss or water flosser
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and other very hard or sticky foods
- Wear a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth
- Keep up with regular checkups and dental cleanings so we can monitor your bridge and gums
- Call us if your bridge feels loose, your bite feels off, or the gums around it become sore or swollen
Fill the Gap in Your Smile
We're in-network with many PPO plans, and patients without insurance can join our in-office membership plan for 12 months of coverage with immediate benefits. Visit our insurance page to learn more.
If you've been searching for a dentist near me to replace a missing tooth in Richardson, Plano or Garland, call (469) 947-3963 or request an appointment today.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How long do dental bridges last?
Fixed dental bridges generally last several years, and often longer, before they need to be replaced. How long yours lasts depends on the health of the anchor teeth, your oral hygiene, your bite and habits like grinding. Brushing, cleaning under the bridge daily and keeping regular checkups at our Richardson office all help extend its life.
How many visits does a dental bridge take?
A traditional fixed bridge typically takes two visits. At the first, the anchor teeth are prepared, impressions are taken and a temporary bridge is placed. At the second, the temporary is removed and your permanent bridge is bonded in place, polished and adjusted. Implant-supported bridges take longer because the implants need time to heal first.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
The procedure should not be painful. We numb the area with local anesthesia before preparing the anchor teeth, and nitrous oxide or oral sedation is available if you feel nervous. Some mild sensitivity or gum tenderness afterward is normal and usually fades within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help in the meantime.
Does insurance cover dental bridges in Richardson?
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of a bridge used to replace a missing tooth, though coverage and waiting periods vary by plan. Gentle Touch Dentistry Richardson is in-network with many PPO plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental and MetLife, and will help you understand your benefits before treatment begins.
What is an implant-supported bridge?
An implant-supported bridge is anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth. It is often recommended when several teeth in a row are missing, because larger traditional bridges are less stable. Since it does not rely on neighboring teeth for support, it can be a strong, long-term option. Your dentist will tell you whether you are a candidate.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes. Once your permanent bridge is placed, you can eat most foods comfortably. Many patients find chewing easier than before because the gap is filled. It's best to avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge, and to cut tough foods into smaller pieces. Your dentist will share specific tips at your appointment.
What happens if I don't replace a missing tooth?
When a tooth is missing, nearby teeth can drift or tilt into the gap, and the opposing tooth may shift too. This can change your bite, make cleaning harder and raise the risk of decay and gum problems. The jawbone in that area can also shrink over time. A bridge or implant helps prevent these changes.
