Dental bridge West MI family dentists

When you’re preparing to fill in a gap in your smile left by a lost tooth, you want to be sure of the restoration you choose. As far as non-surgical options go, our West MI dentists recommend a dental bridge, especially if you don’t need an entire arch of teeth replaced.

Here’s what you should know about custom dental bridges and why they’re a worthy choice for missing teeth.

An Argument for Tooth Replacement 

A missing tooth is just a gap in your smile, right? Not quite. There are more motivations behind replacing teeth than just aesthetics. For instance, if you have recently had a tooth knocked out due to an accident, you may have more trouble speaking properly or chewing your food.

Read More ? 5 Key Reasons Why Tooth Replacement is a Good Idea

This isn’t just a self-esteem issue, adjustments like these, i.e., only chewing on one side, can negatively impact the rest of your mouth. Teeth can crowd inwards to fill the space and your bite can be thrown off resulting in jaw pain. Our dentists want you to have a happy, healthy smile. If that means introducing restorative options like a traditional dental bridge, dental implants, or dentures, then we’ll work with you to give you what you need most.

Instances That Call for a Dental Bridge

How are you supposed to know when you should mull over the idea of getting a dental bridge? Well, there are a few qualifications that make someone eligible for such a restoration.

One of those centers around your self-confidence. How do you feel about your smile now? If you’re not satisfied with what you see in the mirror or in pictures, it may be time for a change. The dental bridge procedure will create a seamless smile thanks to natural-looking dental crowns as well as boost your self image.

A dental bridge may also be recommended if you have:

  • Noticeable bite issues (how your top and bottom teeth come together)
  • Difficulty chewing foods
  • Pain due to the increased stress on your teeth and jaw
  • One or more permanent teeth missing

If you identify with any of the above, give our dental bridge dentists a call and we can discuss next steps. We’ll need to first take a closer look at your mouth and assess your current oral health to make sure nothing else needs to be addressed before the dental bridge is created.

The Different Types of Dental Bridges

If you’re considering a tooth bridge, you might be wondering which form of the restoration would be the most effective solution for replacing your exact number and configuration of missing teeth. There are several types of dental bridges, each suited to different needs and situations. Our dentists can walk you through the possibilities and will ultimately settle on one that works best.

Depending on your smile, you could receive one of the following:

  1. Traditional Bridges: Most common type; Consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored by dental crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth.
  1. Cantilever Bridges: Less common; Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth and typically best for areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth.
  1. Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these are made of a metal framework with porcelain fused to metal or ceramic teeth. The framework is bonded to the back of the adjacent natural teeth, minimizing the need for crowns and preserving more of the natural tooth structure.
  1. Implant-Supported Bridges: Anchored by dental implants rather than crowns. Implant-supported bridges are a good option when multiple teeth are missing and a surgical solution isn’t opposed, providing superior stability and jawbone stimulation.

Dental Bridge Advantages 

Along with other restorative dental procedures, dental bridges pose many benefits to the patient. Of course, the main benefit is a filled in gap, but there are others you should keep in mind if a bridge is in your cards.

Moving forward with a dental bridge can result in:

  • Restored chewing and speaking ability
  • More confidence when smiling
  • A reduced risk of other teeth moving out of place (into the gap left open)
  • Maintained face structure

Our dentists understand that you may be coming to us in a vulnerable state. Not having all of your teeth can feel embarrassing for some which is why we have created a judgment-free environment in each of our locations. We will always support your decision to enhance your smile and improve your long-term oral health.

Make an Appointment

Our dental bridge dentists serving West Michigan take pride in making smile dreams come true. If you’re missing teeth and you no longer feel confident or have trouble eating, we can help with a dental bridge specially tailored to you. Call one of our MI Smiles Dental locations today to schedule an appointment and get started.

This blog post has been updated.