Modern dentistry offers several durable and long-lasting tooth replacement options. For
example, we might recommend that you receive a dental bridge. This treatment can fill in the gaps in your smile,
improve dental function, and maybe even give you a confidence boost. Read this page to learn more about dental
bridges, and then contact our Muskegon team
to book your restorative dentistry consultation. We look forward to serving you!
Why Choose Healthy Smiles Dental Care for Dental Bridges?
Traditional & Implant Bridges Available
Advanced Digital Impression System
Highly Skilled Dentists and Team
What Is a Dental Bridge?
There are a few types of dental bridges, but they are all designed to replace one or more teeth in a row. A
traditional bridge has a crown on each side. Those crowns get attached to the teeth next to a gap (the abutment
teeth). Between them, they support artificial teeth (called pontics). Often, bridges are made of lifelike porcelain.
However, they can also be constructed out of metals or other materials.
Types of Dental Bridges
While there are several types of bridges, the two that we provide most often are traditional bridges (also called
fixed bridges) and implant bridges. Both options have their own unique advantages. During your consultation, we will
thoroughly examine your mouth and learn about your preferences so we can help you decide which one is best for you.
Whichever treatment you move forward with, you can look forward to a stronger, healthier, and more functional smile!
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is both sturdy and cost-effective. Plus, the entire treatment can be completed in just a
couple of appointments over the course of a few weeks. The downside to traditional bridges is that they require us
to remove some healthy enamel from the abutment teeth.
Implant Bridges
Instead of relying on nearby teeth for support, an implant bridge is secured in the mouth by prosthetic tooth roots
(dental implants), which are placed in the jawbone during a minimally invasive surgery. Although the treatment
process is more complex than that of traditional bridges, the end result is stronger and more beneficial overall.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Bridge
As a result of getting a dental bridge, you may enjoy a number of outstanding advantages:
Improved chewing ability. A bridge is strong enough to help you chew virtually any food.
No dental drift. A bridge can serve as a placeholder that prevents the remaining natural teeth
from drifting out of place.
Enhanced confidence. Bridges can look beautiful. You should be able to smile without worrying
about what others will think about the state of your teeth.
It is common for dental bridges to last for a decade or longer.
Are you struggling with the effects of missing teeth? Get in touch with us today to learn how we can recomplete your
smile!
Dental Bridge FAQs
Is Getting a Dental Bridge Painful?
How Long Should a Dental Bridge Last?
How Many Teeth Can a Dental Bridge Replace?
Do Dental Bridges Look Natural?
Is Getting a Dental Bridge Painful?
Not really! Getting a dental bridge isn't usually considered painful thanks to the numbing agents our team uses during preparation. Although we typically only need to use a topical anesthetic, alternative sedation options are available for nervous patients.
After dental bridge placement, your teeth may feel sensitive for a few days. The good news is this is easily manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Dental bridges help prevent discomfort by keeping teeth from shifting. For implant bridges, there may be soreness post-surgery. In these cases, we’ll provide thorough aftercare instructions to alleviate discomfort.
How Long Should a Dental Bridge Last?
The lifespan of a dental bridge typically ranges from five to 15 years, influenced by factors such as material and personal habits. While metal bridges may last longer, the difference compared to metal-free ones is often minimal. Individual factors like diet, oral hygiene, and poor habits such as smoking or teeth grinding play a significant role in the longevity of your restoration.
Dental bridges that replace the front teeth tend to last longer due to reduced wear from chewing. Bridges supported by implants generally have a longer lifespan, with the implants lasting several decades with proper care. However, the restoration itself may need replacement eventually.
How Many Teeth Can a Dental Bridge Replace?
A dental bridge can replace anywhere from one to four missing teeth in a row, depending on the patient's unique needs. However, it's most common for bridges to replace only one or two teeth. Longer bridges may become less stable, particularly if the supporting natural teeth aren't strong. That’s why it can be risky to replace three or more teeth with a bridge. Fortunately, implant bridges can help mitigate this risk since implants offer strong and secure support similar to natural teeth.
Do Dental Bridges Look Natural?
Absolutely! Metal-free bridges are made from natural-looking materials such as ceramic and zirconia. Since these materials look incredibly similar to tooth enamel, others will hardly notice the difference. Plus, unlike dentures, you don’t have to worry about your prosthetic falling out or slipping around your mouth. You can eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence!
When placing the dental bridge, our team will ensure it blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile. We typically only use metal bridges for teeth that aren’t visible in your smile (i.e., back molars).
