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Dental Bridges

If you are missing even a single tooth, you know how difficult it can be to eat certain foods, speak clearly, and smile with confidence.  Dr. Jason Collier can restore your smile and oral function with a dental bridge at our Cordova, TN, practice. Is a dental bridge right for me?

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are a great option for our patients in Memphis looking to restore one to three missing teeth.

Traditional: A traditional bridge is made up of two crowns at each end with a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) in the middle. These prosthetic teeth, also referred to as pontics, literally bridge the gap in your smile and are custom-made to match your natural teeth.

Implant-Supported: Modern advancements in restorative dentistry have now made implant-supported bridges a trusted and popular option. Instead of relying on crowns to hold the pontic teeth in place, implant bridges are self-supported with titanium posts embedded within your jaw.  

Bridge illustration

Why choose our Cordova practice for your dental bridge?

5-Star Reviews Hear from Our Memphis Patients

"Myself and a number of family members have been to this dentist. He is a genius when it comes to implants! I had my entire mouth done with implants due to some health problems that harmed my teeth and my mouth looks FABULOUS! No one knows…" Kathy S.

Candidates for Treatment

Traditional Bridge

Traditional bridge

  • A traditional bridge is generally best for patients missing one to two teeth.
  • They are most effective when patients have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap for support.
  • Traditional treatment is usually more affordable and may be the best option if you are on a tight budget. 

Implant Dental Bridge

Implant bridge

  • If you are missing a tooth (or teeth) at the end of a dental arch, you may consider implants for better stability. 
  • An implant-supported dental bridge is best if you are missing two or three teeth. 
  • Candidates for dental implants must be healthy enough to undergo surgery and have good bone density.


If you are missing four or more teeth, then you may be better suited for a partial or full denture.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Dental Bridge

As our dental professionals serving Memphis know, after years of wear, a restoration may just not fit the bill like it used to. Regardless of what type of bridge you may have, we’ve put together a few signs it’s time to have yours replaced.
Man looking at teeth in the mirror
  • Pain: If your bridge doesn’t fit correctly, it can cause some serious dental discomfort. If an area of your mouth feels unusual, it’s a good indication there’s something awry with your bridge.
  • Your bite is off: If your teeth do not rest together comfortably when you close your mouth, this means your dental bridge is not accommodating your bite.
  • Stains or discoloration: Bridges made from cheap materials will become stained or discolored over time, regardless of how well you keep up with your dental health.
  • Loose fit: When you eat, speak, or smile, your bridge should stay in place – especially if it is supported by dental implants. You may need an adjustment or a brand new bridge.

"I would recommend this office to family and friends" What Our Patients Have to Say

1

Mike Swain

2022

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The team at Southern Dental Implant is great...They make me feel like family every time I go...Great Job!!!

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1

George Redmond

2022

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The staff was absolute pleasant  and professional...I would recommend this office to family and friends.

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A Closer Look at the Procedure

We carefully perform each step to ensure your comfort and the best possible end results.

Traditional Bridge Treatment Timeline 

While treatment looks slightly different for everyone, these are the basic steps involved for a traditional dental bridge at our Cordova, TN, practice serving Memphis and the Mid-South area. 
Dr. Collier has a background in prosthetics and takes pride in designing exceptionally lifelike bridges with high-quality pontics.
Dr. Collier has a background in prosthetics and takes pride in designing exceptionally lifelike bridges with high-quality pontics.

​Consultation

During your free consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and take x-rays of your oral structures. If we determine a dental bridge is right for you, we will discuss your options and map out your custom treatment plan. 

Preparation

Next, we prepare the teeth adjacent to the gap in your smile. The dentist will remove some enamel from each tooth and reshape the structure to accommodate your custom crowns. Then, we take detailed impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth to get started on your permanent dental bridge. We will place a temporary until your next visit.

Design

Dr. Collier has a background in prosthetics and takes pride in designing exceptionally lifelike restorations. By taking into account your coloring and facial features, as well as your natural teeth, your bridge will be designed to look natural and enhance your entire appearance. These impressions and designs are sent off to our trusted dental lab where technicians hand-craft the restoration.

Placement

In about two to three weeks, your permanent dental bridge will be ready and you can return to the office for placement. Our dentist will check the fit and aesthetics of the crowns and pontics, and secure the bridge in place with dental cement. 

Treatment will look much different if you choose to restore your smile with an implant bridge. During a minor surgery, incisions will be made in your gums and two or more dental implants will be placed. Although treatment takes several months, implants offer several benefits.

Don't be nervous about the procedure. You are in good hands... 

Relax with Sedation at Our Memphis Practice

Our dentists serving patients from in and around Memphis have undergone additional training in order to provide sedation for our more nervous and sensitive patients. The sedative is administered before we begin treatment to induce a state of deep relaxation. The process is very safe and effective and allows many patients with anxiety to experience a level of true comfort. Ask about sedation dentistry at your consultation and find out how we can help you.

Sedation dentistry patient

How to Take Care of Your Dental Bridge Aftercare Tips

Add years to the life of your new dental bridge by following these simple tips:

Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly

Use a floss threader to clean under the bridge

Do not chew bones, ice, and other hard objects

Avoid tobacco products

Notify your dentist immediately if your dental bridge becomes damaged

Traditional and implant-supported bridges depend on good oral health, which is why it's crucial to visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings and exams. We have the skills and resources to let you enjoy your new prosthetic for as long as possible!

More Praise From Our Patients in Memphis

1

Divyen Patel

2022

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The most amazing staff I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. Thank you Southern Dental Implant. I've told all my friends about your wonderful services

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1

Bertha Chambers

2020

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From the time we entered into their office until we left, everyone was courtesy, friendly, and professional. We were made to feel comfortable and welcome. Dr. Collier explained everything to us like no one ever did and with patients than he answered all of ours questions and concerns.

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The team at ​Southern Dental Implant Center

​Southern Dental Implant Center

Dr. Jason Collier, our board-certified dentist at ​Southern Dental Implant Center, provides patients in Memphis and the Mid-South area with state-of-the-art dental care using advanced technology. Our doctors are affiliated with many prestigious organizations, including:

  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation
  • Academy of General Dentistry
  • American Dental Association
  • Tennessee Dental Association
  • Christian Medical & Dental Associations
  • Memphis Dental Society

To learn more about our practice or to schedule an appointment at our Cordova, TN, dental office, contact us online or call (901) 756-0078.

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