Dental Bridges in San Antonio: Restore Your Smile with Confidence

When a missing tooth leaves a gap in your smile, it affects your appearance, function, and oral health. The empty space can make it difficult to chew properly, and cause surrounding teeth to shift and change the shape of your face over time. Dental bridges offer a reliable, natural-looking solution that literally “bridges” the gap created by missing teeth. This fixed prosthetic restores your smile’s appearance while helping maintain proper bite function and facial structure, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

At Advanced Smile Care, we understand how missing teeth can affect your confidence and oral health. Our expert San Antonio dentist at Advanced Smile Care provides personalized care to help you choose the right type of dental bridge for your needs. Whether you need a traditional or implant-supported bridge, we will guide you through each step of the process.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge replaces missing teeth by filling the gap left behind. Anchored by dental crowns placed on the abutment teeth, which are the natural teeth on either side of the gap, a dental bridge enhances your smile and improves your ability to chew and speak properly. The procedure is designed to be comfortable and efficient, ensuring you leave our clinic with increased confidence. With a new dental bridge, you can enjoy a natural-looking smile that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.

Beyond improving appearance, dental bridges help maintain oral health by preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting. Misalignment can lead to complications such as gum disease. Our dentists will work with you to determine the best bridge for your needs, ensuring your comfort and the long-term durability of your restoration.

Benefits of Choosing Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer many benefits that go beyond improving your smile. They restore function by allowing you to chew food and speak clearly, which are essential aspects of daily life. Additionally, dental bridges help maintain your facial structure and prevent the sunken appearance that often comes with tooth loss. This restoration can boost your self-esteem, allowing you to smile confidently without worrying about gaps in your teeth.

Another major benefit is the durability of dental bridges. With proper care, your new dental bridge can last for many years, making it a cost-effective solution over time. Bridges are designed to blend naturally with your existing teeth, providing a seamless look that enhances your overall appearance. 

Types of Dental Bridges We Offer

At Advanced Smile Care, we offer several types of dental bridges to meet your unique needs. The traditional dental bridge is the most common type and consists of artificial teeth anchored by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth. This bridge is effective for patients with healthy abutment teeth on either side of the gap. The cantilever bridge is an option when only one natural tooth is available for support.

For a more permanent solution, we offer implant-supported bridges. These bridges are secured by dental implants, providing a strong foundation similar to the natural tooth root. This option is ideal for patients who have lost multiple teeth and want a long-lasting solution. Our experienced dentists will help you explore all available options to find the best choice for your oral health and lifestyle.

How Dental Bridges Improve Your Oral Health

Dental bridges play an important role in improving oral health by replacing missing teeth. They help maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth, preventing them from shifting into the empty space. This alignment is critical for your bite and can prevent issues such as tooth wear and jaw pain. Filling the gap also reduces the risk of gum disease by making it harder for bacteria to accumulate in open spaces.

Dental bridges also support your facial structure. Without teeth, the surrounding bones and tissues can deteriorate, which may alter your facial appearance. A dental bridge restores your smile and helps protect your dental health. Regular check-ups and teeth cleanings, along with proper care ensure your bridge continues to support your oral health.

The Procedure for Getting Dental Bridges

Getting a dental bridge is a simple process that usually requires two visits to our office. During your first appointment, our dentist will assess your oral health and take impressions to create a custom bridge that fits perfectly. If you choose a traditional dental bridge, crowns will be placed on the abutment teeth for support. In cases where you opt for an implant-supported bridge, dental implants will be placed into the jawbone.

After preparing your teeth, we may place a temporary dental bridge to protect them while the custom bridge is being made. Once your bridge is ready, we will place it and make any necessary adjustments for comfort. The procedure is designed to be efficient and comfortable, allowing you to leave with a beautiful new smile. Our team will provide aftercare instructions to help ensure the longevity of your dental bridge.

What to Expect After a Dental Bridge Placement

After receiving a dental bridge, you may experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort in the area. This is a normal part of the healing process and typically subsides within a few days. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, which may include dietary recommendations and advice for managing discomfort. For a short time, you may be advised to eat soft foods to allow your gums to heal properly and adjust to the new bridge.

As you adjust to your dental bridge, you will gradually notice improvements in your ability to chew and speak. You may feel some unusual sensations initially, but this will pass quickly. If you choose an implant-supported bridge, it may take longer for your mouth to fully adjust, as the implants need time to integrate with your jawbone. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure the bridge functions as intended.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on several factors, such as the type of bridge chosen, how well you care for it, and your overall oral health. A well-maintained dental bridge can last between 5 to 15 years on average. Traditional bridges may need replacement sooner than implant-supported bridges, which are more durable due to their integration with the jawbone.

Affordable Dental Bridge Options in San Antonio

At Advanced Smile Care, we believe everyone should have access to quality dental care, including dental bridges. We offer affordable options to fit different budgets without compromising on quality. Our team will help you find the best financial solutions, including insurance, payment plans, and financing options. We aim to provide transparent pricing and help you make informed decisions about your oral health.

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation Today

If you are considering a dental bridge to restore your smile, schedule an appointment with our skilled dentists at Advanced Smile Care. During your consultation, we will evaluate your oral health and discuss your options for replacing missing teeth.

Our team is committed to providing personalized care, making sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process. We understand every patient has unique needs and are ready to guide you in making the best decision for your oral health. Call Advanced Smile Care at (210) 366-3606 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment.