Dental Bridges
Did you recently lose a tooth? If so, we may recommend a dental bridge to fill the gap in your smile. A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration comprised of a false tooth suspended between two crowns on adjacent teeth.
At Plymouth Dentistry, we provide custom dental bridges in Plymouth, MI to help patients restore missing teeth and regain confidence in their smiles. Whether you are missing a front tooth or a back tooth, a dental bridge can improve your ability to chew, speak, and smile comfortably while preventing nearby teeth from shifting out of place.
To learn if you’re a candidate for a tooth bridge, call our dentist office in Plymouth, Michigan today. Our dentists will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have during your consultation.
Types of Dental Bridges in Plymouth
Several types of dental bridges are available depending on your oral health needs and the location of the missing tooth.
- Traditional Dental Bridges
Traditional bridges are one of the most common options for replacing missing teeth. This type of bridge uses crowns placed on the natural teeth surrounding the gap to support the replacement tooth in between.
- Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges but require support from only one adjacent tooth. This option may be recommended in areas of the mouth with less biting pressure.
- Maryland Dental Bridges
Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of neighboring teeth instead of dental crowns. These bridges are often used to replace front teeth while preserving more natural tooth structure.
- Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge is secured using dental implants rather than natural teeth. This option provides additional stability and helps support long-term jawbone health for patients missing multiple teeth.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Both dental bridges and implants are effective tooth replacement options, but each offers unique advantages. A dental bridge is typically faster to complete and may cost less upfront because it does not require oral surgery or a lengthy healing period. Many patients choose bridges when they want a reliable and efficient solution for restoring their smile.
Dental implants, however, are designed to replace the tooth root and can last longer with proper care. Implants also help preserve bone density in the jaw over time. If you’re looking for a more permanent tooth replacement solution, our team can help you explore whether implants are right for your smile.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
With good oral hygiene habits, many dental bridges can last 10 years or longer. To protect your restoration and maintain your oral health, it is important to:
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily
- Floss carefully around and underneath the bridge
- Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Visit Plymouth Dentistry regularly for cleanings and exams
Proper care can help extend the life of your bridge while keeping your smile healthy and comfortable for years to come.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
The lifespan of your tooth bridge depends on many factors, such as how often you brush teeth, smoke, grind teeth, chew ice, eat hard foods, or use your teeth as tools. The better your oral hygiene habits, the longer your dental bridge is likely to last.
Make sure you continue brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily. You’ll also need to schedule a teeth cleaning and oral examination with our office every 6 months.
Can You Have a Bridge on Your Front Teeth?
Yes, we can create a dental bridge for front teeth. A front teeth bridge fills the gap in your smile left by a missing tooth so you can eat, talk, and smile with confidence. Our dentists will make sure your new restoration looks and feels natural.
Is a Bridge Better than an Implant?
A dental bridge is different from an implant because it sits above your gums while an implant is placed in the jawbone. Both dental bridges and implants are carefully made to look like natural teeth. Our dentists will be able to determine whether you’re a better candidate for a tooth bridge or implant.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you need a tooth replaced then a dental bridge may be the best option for you. Call Plymouth Dentistry at (734) 459-7110 to schedule an appointment, then we can talk about if a dental bridge is right for you.