Dental Bridges in Traverse City, MI

Tooth loss can affect proper function including eating, speech, and the alignment of other teeth. Not replacing a missing tooth can cause the loss of other teeth, affecting the patient's health even further. A dental bridge (sometimes known as partial dentures) is one of the options to correct a missing tooth or teeth. A dental bridge attaches the restorative teeth (bridge) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This bridge acts as the new teeth, closing the gap and restoring the patient's smile and mouth functions. There are 3 main types of bridges and board-certified dentist Dr. Phillip Yancho can create each of these at his Traverse City dental office, Yancho Family and Cosmetic Dentistry:

• Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
• Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
• Maryland bonded bridges (also called a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge) are made of porcelain teeth supported by a metal framework. Metal wings on each side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth. Some Maryland bridges are now made of all porcelain for better esthetics.

Preparing and placing a dental bridge usually takes at least 2 appointments at the dentist’s office. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by filing them down to make room for the dental crowns. After the teeth are prepared, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where experts will create a bridge, including the pontic and surrounding crowns for the abutment teeth. While the permanent bridge is being created, the dentist will place a temporary bridge over the patient’s teeth for protection. Once the custom-made bridge is returned to the dentist’s office, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge and cement the permanent bridge into place. The dentist will check and adjust the bridge to give the patient their best fit, but the patient may need to return in a few weeks to have their fit and bite re-checked.

Dental bridges can last 5 – 15 years, or longer with proper home came and regular exams and cleanings by the dentist. Patients can keep their bridges and natural teeth healthy by brushing twice a day, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash daily. Patients should make annual dental exams and bi-annual dental cleanings with their dentist to ensure the bridge is clean and in good condition.

If you avoid smiling to hide a gap in your teeth, call our office to schedule a consultation and learn about dental bridges and if they are right for you. Your dentist can tell you if a dental bridge can improve the appearance of your smile and give you a healthier mouth.