Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges in Memphis, TN
A missing tooth changes more than the way your smile looks. It affects your bite, your speech, and the alignment of your remaining teeth. A dental bridge in Memphis, TN from Dr. Marrio Smiles fills that gap with a natural-looking restoration that brings back both function and appearance, without the longer timeline of implant surgery.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that literally bridges the space left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) anchored to dental crowns placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Once cemented in place, a bridge looks and functions like your natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restores your ability to chew and speak normally
- Prevents remaining teeth from shifting out of position
- Maintains the natural shape of your face
- Custom-crafted to match the color and shape of your teeth
- Completed in just two office visits
- Does not require surgery
The Bridge Process
First Visit: Preparation
Dr. Thomas prepares the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the gap) by reshaping them to accommodate crowns. Precise digital impressions are taken using our intraoral scanner and sent to a dental lab. A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth while the permanent restoration is fabricated.
Second Visit: Placement
Once your custom bridge is ready, we remove the temporary and place the permanent restoration. Dr. Thomas checks the fit, bite, and appearance, making any fine adjustments to ensure the bridge feels natural and comfortable.
Bridge vs. Implant
Both bridges and dental implants are effective for replacing missing teeth. Bridges are ideal when you want a faster solution that does not involve surgery. Implants are preferred when preserving jawbone is a priority or when adjacent teeth are healthy and should not be altered. Dr. Thomas will help you weigh the options during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
With proper care, a dental bridge can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular checkups, and avoiding chewing hard objects will help extend the life of your bridge.
Getting a dental bridge typically requires two visits. At the first appointment, we prepare the supporting teeth and take impressions. A temporary bridge is placed while your permanent bridge is crafted. At the second visit, we place and adjust the final bridge.
Both options effectively replace missing teeth. Bridges are faster and less invasive, while implants preserve jawbone and do not require altering adjacent teeth. Dr. Thomas will help you choose the best option based on your specific situation.
Care for your bridge the same way you care for natural teeth: brush twice daily, floss under and around the bridge using a floss threader, and visit Dr. Marrio Smiles for regular cleanings and exams.
Bridge the Gap in Your Smile
A dental bridge restores your smile, your bite, and your confidence. Schedule a consultation and learn how we can replace your missing teeth.
670 Colonial Road, Suite 6 Memphis, Tennessee 38117
6621 Kirby Center Cove Memphis, Tennessee 38115
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