Missing teeth can affect more than just your confidence—they can lead to bite misalignment, difficulty chewing, and other dental issues. Dental bridges are a dependable solution for filling those gaps, restoring your smile, and improving overall oral function.
At The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin, our skilled team includes Dr. John Christian Schiro, DDS, FAGD, a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. John D. Barras, DDS, LVIF, a graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, and Dr. John M. Hay, DDS, LVIF, a Fellow of LVI. With expertise in full-mouth restoration and cosmetic dentistry, they provide durable, natural-looking dental bridges that enhance both function and aesthetics.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge provides a stable, long-term replacement for missing teeth while maintaining proper oral function and appearance. The pontic, or artificial tooth, is supported by crowns placed on surrounding natural teeth or secured with dental implants for a seamless fit. Beyond restoring your smile, a bridge reinforces bite stability and stops adjacent teeth from shifting.
Many patients opt for porcelain dental bridges due to their natural appearance. Crafted to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth, porcelain bridges mimic the look and feel of real enamel, providing both durability and aesthetic appeal.
Based on your oral health and tooth loss, a traditional, cantilever, or implant-supported bridge may be the best solution. Each type is designed to restore function and aesthetics in different ways. The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin can help determine which solution will best complement your smile and provide lasting results.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges provide numerous advantages for those looking to restore their smile after tooth loss. Some of the key advantages include:
- Improving chewing efficiency and speech clarity
- Keeping surrounding teeth stable and properly aligned
- Preserving facial structure by supporting the jaw and surrounding tissues
- Providing a long-lasting solution when properly cared for
- Offering a non-invasive alternative to dental implants for tooth replacement
Porcelain dental bridges, in particular, are known for their strength and lifelike appearance, making them a top choice for patients who want both durability and aesthetics.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
The process of getting a dental bridge usually takes two visits to achieve a secure and natural fit.
First Visit:
- Your dentist will assess your teeth, review your dental needs, and decide if a bridge is the right solution.
- X-rays or digital impressions may be taken to assist with planning.
- When opting for a traditional or porcelain bridge, the neighboring teeth will be prepared to hold supporting crowns.
- Molds or digital scans of your teeth will be taken to design a bridge that fits precisely.
- A temporary bridge may be used to safeguard your teeth while your permanent bridge is being made.
Second Visit:
- Your final porcelain bridge, designed as a single, natural-looking piece with crowns on the anchor teeth and a pontic tooth in between, will be ready.
- The dentist will ensure a precise fit and make any necessary adjustments.
- The bridge will be securely bonded to your natural teeth with dental cement for a seamless result.
- To promote long-term success, your dentist may schedule follow-up visits as needed.
- A well-maintained bridge can last for years with proper oral hygiene and consistent dental care.
Why Choose The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin for Dental Bridges?
Specializing in both cosmetic and restorative dentistry, the team at The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin delivers expert-level care. Dr. John Christian Schiro, DDS, FAGD, holds a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by dentists who complete advanced training beyond dental school. His cosmetic and full-mouth restoration dentistry expertise ensures that patients receive high-quality, natural-looking dental bridges.
Dr. John D. Barras, DDS, LVIF, graduated from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, where he mastered cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry techniques. His background includes years of experience treating complex dental cases, including TMJ and bite alignment issues.
Dr. John M. Hay, DDS, LVIF, has also earned a Fellowship from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. His commitment to continued education in functional and aesthetic dentistry allows him to provide advanced solutions for patients seeking durable, natural-looking dental restorations.
With their combined expertise in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, our doctors ensure that every dental bridge is designed for optimal function, longevity, and a seamless, natural appearance.
A Lasting Solution for Missing Teeth in Austin, TX
A dental bridge could be the right choice if you need a reliable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. At The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin, we provide high-quality bridges designed for durability and aesthetics. Our experienced team customizes each treatment to restore function and enhance your smile. Call 512-333-7777 to learn more and schedule your consultation today.