A dental bridge is a permanent dental prosthetic that replaces a lost tooth, or a few adjacent lost teeth. As a restorative treatment, a dental bridge can help you regain the ability to bite and chew properly. With a mouth full of teeth, you can also smile confidently again. Deciding if a dental bridge is right for you depends on a number of factors, including how many teeth you’ve lost, the current state of your dental health, Dr. Stewart’s recommendations, and your own personal preferences.
How is a dental bridge made?
A dental bridge is comprised of one, two, or an appropriate number of replacement teeth with a dental crown on either side of the device. The crowns and prosthetic teeth are usually fabricated from lifelike porcelain, which is tinted and layered to mimic your natural teeth’s appearance.
Will the bridge affect my other teeth?
dental crownsConventional bridges rely on the healthy teeth adjacent to your lost teeth for support. Called abutment teeth, they’re carefully sculpted to support the on either side of the bridge. Without a dental bridge, or other appropriate dental prosthetic, the empty spaces of missing teeth can cause teeth that remain to shift, increasing their risk of damage and disease.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
As a permanent replacement for your lost teeth, a dental bridge can affect the gum tissue that it rests on, and proper daily maintenance is important to keep the area, and your entire smile, free of infectious bacteria. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice day and after meals, when possible. Attend a dental checkup and cleaning at least once every six months so Dr. Stewart can periodically inspect your teeth and dental work for signs of trouble.
Is there an alternative to dental bridges?
In most cases, Dr. Stewart may recommend securing your dental bridge to one or more dental implants, instead of using dental crowns and abutment teeth. A dental implant is a small device that’s surgically inserted into the jawbone, and can support any dental prosthetic, such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Implants offer significantly improved support for your dental bridge, and eliminate the need to modify healthy tooth structure to create abutment teeth.
About Dr. James Stewart:
Our philosophy is that excellent dental begins with developing a relationship with the patient. James Steward, DDS, and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.