Dental Bridges – Lincoln, NE
Restore Your Smile and Fortify Your Oral Health
Making the decision to replace missing teeth can be a stressful process because there are so many options out there. That’s why at South Ridge Dental, we offer consultations with Drs. Ryan and Steven Schaffer, so you can gather all the information you need to make the best-informed decision for your oral health. We offer a variety of restorative options including dental bridges to replace missing teeth. When you leave gaps in your smile, it can cause your surrounding teeth to shift and potentially even alter your bite and jawbone density. So, don’t wait to contact us today to learn more about tooth replacement with dental bridges in Lincoln, NE!
Why Choose South Ridge Dental For A Dental Bridge?
- Judgement-Free Dental Care
- Custom-Tailored Experience For Each Patient
- Experienced and Dedicated Team of Professionals
What are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is comprised of two or more crowns that help bridge a gap between missing teeth by being attached to two of your natural teeth. These anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and help hold the restoration in place for a complete and healthy-looking smile. Dental bridges can also be made from a variety of materials, but porcelain is among the most popular.
The Process of Getting a Bridge
Patients can expect to get their dental bridge over the course of a couple of visits to our dental office. If you’d like, you can visit us for a consultation to first discuss whether or not this treatment is the right choice for you. This allows you the chance to ask any questions you may have, and for us to walk you through your unique timeline.
After you decide a dental bridge is the right choice for you, we’ll begin by preparing your abutment teeth by recontouring them so they can hold bridge in place. Next, we’ll take impressions of your teeth that will be sent off to a dental lab to make your permanent bridge. In the meantime, we’ll make a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth and fill in the gap.
During your second visit, we’ll remove your temporary bridge and make sure that your new bridge fits properly and looks great. After checking your bite, we’ll then cement it into place and polish it up so you can enjoy your newly restored smile.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
A dental bridge in Lincoln is a great option for any patient who is missing two or more teeth. Restoring your smile is essential in preserving the rest of your mouth and your self-confidence. Bridges can also:
- Improve your ability to speak and chew.
- Maintain the shape of your face.
- Evenly distribute your bite force.
- Prevent your remaining natural teeth from drifting to fill the gap of your missing tooth.
Dental Implant-Retained Bridges
When you schedule a consultation with your dentist in Lincoln, be sure to also ask about our implant-retained bridges. Like traditional dental bridges, they are a custom-crafted prosthetic made to bridge the gap between missing teeth. The difference is, they’re anchored by two surgically inserted implants that natural fuse with your jawbone to prevent deterioration and increase the restoration’s durability and strength.
Dental Bridge Frequently Asked Questions
Dental bridges have been used for generations to treat consecutive tooth loss; however, it’s normal to have a few concerns before you’re ready to commit to one. There’s no reason to worry. We will explain everything during your consultation. While you wait for your appointment, here are the answers to a few dental bridges FAQs in Lincoln.
Are there different types of bridges?
Dentistry undergoes continual improvements to offer a wider variety of options to treat common issues, like tooth loss. When replacing one or more lost teeth in a row, you have several types of bridges to choose from. The most traditional method involves prosthetic teeth fabricated from porcelain. It’s held in place by bonding one or two dental crowns over the adjacent teeth. As an alternative to traditional fixed bridges, you can support your restoration with dental implants. Unlike a conventional bridge, an implant-supported solution replicates both the roots and crowns of the missing teeth.
Who makes a good candidate for a dental bridge?
If you have lost a tooth or two, you might be a candidate for a bridge. Your dentist will examine your mouth to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. If you have any untreated dental issues, like tooth decay or gum disease, they will have to be resolved first. If you’re interested in an implant-supported option, there are additional criteria you’ll have to meet, such as adequate density in your jawbone.
How long does a dental bridge last?
The lifespan of your new smile depends on various factors, such as if you choose a fixed bridge or implant bridge. The traditional method lasts for an average of 5-15 years, while an implant-supported restoration can thrive for decades. You can ensure your new smile lasts for many years by committing to your oral hygiene at home and visiting your dentist regularly. It’s best to avoid anything that may damage your new teeth, like using them as tools or chewing on inedible objects.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
There isn’t a flat fee for a bridge because every smile is unique. Your dentist considers several things when creating your personalized estimate, such as the number of teeth you’re treating and the type of restoration. You can also expect any prep-work to be included in the estimate. Your dental team will take the time to explain everything during your bridge consultation, including your payment options. Our dental office accepts multiple payment methods to keep a complete smile within everyone’s budget, including third-party financing.
Can I use my dental insurance to pay for a dental bridge?
Each policy differs, but most dental insurance plans offer some coverage to replace lost teeth. Although you can’t expect them to cover the entire cost, you can use your benefits to offset the amount you pay out-of-pocket. After reaching your annual deductible, you have access to your yearly allowance to keep a complete smile affordable. A member of our team will work on your behalf to maximize your dental coverage.