Dental Bridges in Little Rock, AR
If you’re missing one or several of your teeth, our dentist in Little Rock, AR may recommend dental bridges. A bridge is a custom, fixed dental prosthesis that consists of pontic teeth supported by adjacent teeth. Dental bridges are called so because they close or bridge the gap created by missing teeth. Dental bridges in Little Rock, AR provide structural support and ensure even distribution of chewing forces.
Unaddressed tooth loss can pose numerous consequences to your oral and overall well-being. Getting your teeth replaced in a timely fashion lowers your risk of experiencing the adverse effects of tooth loss. More specifically, dental bridges near you keep your smile intact and boost your self-confidence, stop adjacent teeth from drifting to new positions, restore your ability to chew and speak and prevent facial collapse.
If you’ve recently experienced tooth loss, get in touch with Knight Dental Care today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. William Knight.
Types of Dental Bridges
Knight Dental Care provides four types of dental bridges: conventional bridges, Maryland-bonded bridges, cantilever bridges, and implant-supported bridges. If you’re a fitting candidate for bridges, our dentist carefully evaluates you to determine the type of bridge that best meets your needs.
Conventional Bridges
A traditional bridge is supported by two anchor teeth, each on either side of the gap created by the missing teeth.
Maryland-bonded Bridges
Maryland-bonded bridges utilize a framework of metal or porcelain wings fixed to the underside of the anchor teeth. Maryland bridges are ideal for restoring the front teeth.
Cantilever Bridges
If you only have a single tooth adjacent to the missing tooth, you may be a candidate for cantilever bridges. Unlike conventional bridges that utilize two teeth for support, a cantilever bridge is supported by a single tooth.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Individuals who are missing anchor teeth can still get dental bridges if they opt for implants. Implants are small titanium screws that are placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. If you require implant-supported bridges, you’ll need to undergo dental implant surgery first.
The Treatment Process
Our dentist in Little Rock, AR carefully evaluates you to determine your suitability for bridges on your first visit. For this process, we utilize visual observation and advanced dental imaging to assess your dental health. Subject to your needs, our dentist may suggest conventional, Maryland, cantilever, or implant-retained bridges. The type of bridge determines the treatment process. For instance, individuals who qualify for implant-retained bridges must first undergo implant surgery.
For conventional bridges, the dentist prepares your anchor teeth by trimming off some enamel, then takes your dental impressions and shares them with the dental lab. On your follow-up visit, the dentist cements the bridge in place.
If you’re interested in dental bridges near you, contact Knight Dental Care to schedule a consultation with our dentist in Little Rock, AR.