Dental Bridges in Baton Rouge, LA
Seamless Tooth Replacement for a Complete Smile
Missing teeth can affect both function and appearance, making it difficult to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Model Dentistry in Baton Rouge, we offer custom dental bridges to restore missing teeth and provide a long-lasting solution for patients in Central, Denham Springs, Zachary, Baker, and surrounding areas. Whether you are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth in a row, our expert team will design a bridge that blends naturally with your smile while restoring full functionality.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of:
- Pontics (Artificial Teeth): The replacement teeth that fill the empty space.
- Abutment Teeth: The natural teeth or dental crowns on either side of the gap that support the bridge.
- Bridge Material: Typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys to ensure durability and a natural appearance.
Bridges are permanently secured in place, unlike full and partial dentures, providing a more stable and comfortable solution for tooth replacement.
Types of Dental Bridges
At Model Dentistry, we offer various bridge options tailored to individual needs:
Traditional Dental Bridges
The most common type, traditional bridges, rely on healthy teeth on either side of the gap. These teeth are prepared for dental crowns, which serve as anchors to hold the bridge in place.
Cantilever Bridges
For cases where only one adjacent tooth is available to support the bridge, a cantilever bridge provides a functional solution. This type is less common but can be useful when a back molar is missing.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Instead of relying on natural teeth for support, implant-supported bridges use dental implants as the foundation. This provides enhanced stability and prevents bone loss in the jaw.
Maryland Bonded Bridges
This option uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, preserving more natural tooth structure. It is often used for replacing front teeth.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Replacing missing teeth with a bridge offers multiple benefits:
- Restores chewing and speaking abilities
- Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting out of place
- Preserves facial structure and prevents jawbone deterioration
- Provides a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration
- Eliminates gaps for a more confident smile
The Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge typically involves two or more visits:
- Consultation & Exam – Our dentists assess your oral health and determine the best bridge type for your needs.
- Tooth Preparation – If using natural teeth as abutments, they will be reshaped and fitted with crowns.
- Impressions & Temporary Bridge – We take digital impressions to create a custom bridge and provide a temporary bridge for protection.
- Final Placement – Once your custom bridge is ready, we bond it securely into place for a seamless fit.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, a dental bridge can last 10–15 years or longer. To maintain your bridge:
- Brush and floss daily, including under the bridge, to prevent decay and gum disease.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Avoid biting on hard foods or using teeth as tools to prevent damage.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent decay in supporting teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental bridges last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, bridges typically last over a decade. Implant-supported bridges can last even longer.
Are dental bridges better than dentures?
Bridges are permanently fixed, providing more stability than removable dentures. They feel more natural and do not require adhesives.
Will a dental bridge affect my speech?
Most patients adjust quickly, and a bridge often improves speech by filling in gaps where teeth were missing.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
The procedure is minimally invasive, and we use local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Some mild sensitivity may occur after placement but subsides quickly.
Can I get a bridge if I have missing back teeth?
Yes, but the best option may be an implant-supported bridge, as it does not rely on natural teeth for support.
Schedule a Consultation for a Dental Bridge in Baton Rouge
If you have missing teeth and want a durable, natural-looking solution, Model Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a dental bridge can restore your smile.
Address: 10954 Joor Road, Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70818
Phone: Call us at (225) 263-4704
