Dental Bridge in Atkins, AR
When we think of tooth loss, we may picture a toothless grin in need of dentures or a single missing front tooth—perhaps the mark of an athlete after a tough season. But tooth loss doesn’t always happen all at once or in one obvious place. It can occur gradually, leaving gaps throughout your smile. These spaces don’t just affect appearance—they can also disrupt your bite and overall oral health. At Atkins Dental Clinic, we restore missing teeth with custom dental bridges, bringing back both function and confidence. If scattered tooth loss is making it harder to eat or smile comfortably, a dental bridge may be the right solution. With a well-designed restoration, you can regain a strong, natural-looking smile that feels complete again.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic appliance that can replace a single tooth or a row of missing teeth, offering both cosmetic and restorative benefits. An artificial tooth known as a pontic replaces your missing teeth by “bridging the gap” between two adjacent healthy teeth. The pontic can be held up by dental crowns that attach to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap or by dental implants that support the bridge from below.
When you lose a tooth, replacing it quickly is important. Leaving a gap in your smile can impact:
- Your ability to bite and chew certain foods
- How clearly you speak
- The alignment of your remaining teeth
- The shape and support of your facial structure
- The health of your jawbone
- Your self-esteem and confidence
Implant-Supported vs. Traditional Dental Bridge
Traditional bridges that use crowns to support the artificial tooth have been effective for many years but have some drawbacks. First, for a traditional bridge to be viable, you must have healthy teeth supporting it. However, using crowns as support components requires alteration and potential damage to these teeth. For the dental crowns to fit over the teeth properly, we must remove enamel. This step is irreversible as enamel does not regenerate like other tissues. While these tooth-supported bridges can be effective restorative tools, they may also put excess pressure on the remaining teeth, making them vulnerable.
An alternative is an implant-supported bridge, which uses mini dental implants as a base for the artificial teeth. This bridge does not require crowns like the traditional bridge, and the slim titanium implants provide a stronger foundation. Because the implants are attached to the jawbone directly, the bridge provides superior bite strength. In addition to improved function, implant-supported bridges offer a better look and feel thanks to their quality materials and secure fit.
Dental Bridge Placement: Consultation to Final Results
The first step in getting a dental bridge is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bratton. During your visit, he will examine your teeth, take digital X-rays, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, preferences, and goals.
When it’s time to place your implant-supported bridge, Dr. Bratton will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. He will then create small pilot holes in your gumline to guide the implants, similar to getting your ears pierced. Next, he carefully inserts the mini implants and attaches the bridge. Because mini dental implants provide immediate stability, you can use your new teeth right after the procedure.
Following the placement, you may experience mild discomfort for a day or two, but this should resolve quickly. Dr. Bratton will provide detailed aftercare instructions, but generally, it’s best to avoid hard or sticky foods for the first few days. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth, and maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your implant-supported bridge can remain strong and functional for many years. Maintaining your dental health will help ensure the longevity and stability of your new smile.
Reclaim Your Smile With a Strong, Lasting Solution
Missing teeth don’t have to define your smile or limit your everyday life. With an implant dental bridge, you can restore function and appearance—allowing you to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and feel more like yourself again. At Atkins Dental Clinic, Dr. Aaron Bratton provides personalized care to help you find the best solution for your needs. If you’re ready to close the gaps and regain a complete, natural-looking smile, schedule your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of your dental bridge depends on several factors. These include the type of bridge, the materials used, and the number of teeth being replaced. The number of mini dental implants needed will also affect the price. During your free implant consultation, Dr. Bratton and his team will outline a detailed cost breakdown as part of your personalized treatment plan.
The good news is the implant bridges we provide at our practice are often more budget-friendly than alternatives elsewhere. This affordability stems from the cost-effective nature of mini dental implants compared to conventional implants.
However, we understand that everyone’s budget is unique. We aim to make exceptional dental care affordable to all. We’ll help you navigate your insurance plan to determine what’s covered. If you need financing assistance, we partner with CareCredit and Sunbit to offer flexible plans that fit various budgets.
Aside from traditional bridges and implant-supported bridges, there are also Maryland bridges and cantilever bridges, which are used in very specific situations.
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional ones but only use one crown to attach the pontic. They work similarly to how a balcony juts out from a building—they’re only supported on one end.
Maryland bridges attach to the back of your existing teeth using tiny metal wings. While suitable for replacing front teeth, this design is simply not strong enough to withstand the chewing force imposed on your back teeth.
Keeping your dental bridge clean is essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing plaque buildup. Because food and bacteria can accumulate under and around the bridge, it’s important to use the right techniques to ensure a thorough cleaning. Here’s how:
- Use a floss threader: A floss threader is a simple but effective tool that helps you guide floss underneath your bridge. Once the floss is in place, gently slide it back and forth to remove plaque and trapped food particles. Be sure to floss both sides of the supporting teeth as well.
- Try a water flosser: A water flosser uses a steady stream of water to flush out debris from hard-to-reach areas under your bridge. This is a great option if traditional flossing is difficult or uncomfortable. For best results, aim the water stream at the gumline and under the bridge.
- Brush thoroughly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around your bridge, brushing along the gumline where plaque tends to build up. An interdental brush (a small brush designed to clean between teeth) can also help remove debris from underneath the bridge.
- Attend regular dental checkups: Even with a great at-home routine, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. Dr. Bratton can check for any signs of gum disease or plaque buildup and offer tips for keeping your bridge in top condition.