Dental Bridge

What Are the Benefits of a Dental Bridge?

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Losing a tooth can impact not just your smile but also your oral health. Dealing with gaps in your smile can affect everyday activities like eating and speaking. A dental bridge is an excellent solution to address missing teeth by filling the gap with a prosthetic tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

At Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry in Farmington Hills, Michigan, we recognize the impact that a gap in your smile can have on your daily life and self-esteem. Our dental team is dedicated to providing personalized solutions that enhance your dental health and restore the appearance of your smile.

Discover the aesthetic and practical benefits of a dental bridge to replace missing teeth.

Benefits of a Dental Bridge

Dental bridges are just one of several tooth replacement options for people with missing teeth. This fast, convenient treatment offers numerous benefits to improve your smile and oral health, including:

  • Restoration of functionality. Dental bridges effectively restore the functionality of your bite, allowing you to speak and chew normally. This helps you enjoy a range of foods without discomfort and maintains the natural efficiency of your bite.
  • Preservation of facial structure. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone can deteriorate due to lack of stimulation, leading to a sunken facial appearance. Implant-supported dental bridges support the jawbone, preserving your facial structure and preventing premature aging.
  • Quick treatment time and cost-effective solution. Conventional dental bridges are usually completed in just two visits and are generally more affordable than dental implants. Insurance plans often cover a certain percentage of the cost of dental bridges. This can range from 50% to 80%, but the actual percentage will depend on your specific plan.
  • Enhanced aesthetics. Dental bridges can improve the appearance of your smile by filling in gaps. They are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a realistic, seamless look.
  • Comfort and non-invasive procedure. They are custom-designed to fit comfortably in your mouth and do not require invasive surgical procedures. This makes them suitable for patients who may not be candidates for implants due to health issues like cancer or, uncontrolled diabetes, or inadequate jawbone density.​
  • Prevention of shifting teeth. Missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and potential jaw pain. Dental bridges prevent this by filling the gap and maintaining the proper tooth alignment.
  • Durability. Dental bridges are made from durable materials like porcelain and ceramic and, with proper care, can last between 5 and 15 years. This longevity makes them a reliable solution for tooth replacement.
  • Simple maintenance. Dental bridges are relatively easy to care for, requiring regular oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. Unlike dentures, bridges do not require removal for cleaning, making them a convenient choice.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges, and the right choice often depends on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth) and the health of your teeth and gums. Before deciding on a tooth replacement option, consult with a dental professional to determine the most suitable type of bridge for your case and to learn each dental bridge’s benefits.

  • Traditional dental bridges. These bridges are the most frequently prescribed type of tooth replacement. They are typically only recommended if you have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. The bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) attached to dental crowns (abutments) that are cemented onto the adjacent teeth.
  • Cantilever dental bridges. Similar to traditional bridges, but the pontic is supported by a crown on only one side, rather than on both sides of the gap. This type is used when teeth are on only one side of the open space or in locations with lower biting stress, like the front teeth.
  • Maryland dental bridges. These bridges are considered a conservative alternative to traditional bridges and require minimal enamel removal. They use a metal or porcelain framework bonded onto the backs of the adjacent teeth.
  • Implant-supported dental bridges. These are used when you have more than one tooth missing. Rather than using dental crowns or a porcelain framework secured to adjacent teeth, these bridges are supported by dental implants. Generally, one implant is surgically placed at each end of the gap and holds the bridge in place.

Implant-supported dental bridges

Arrange your Consultation Today

At Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, our skilled professionals use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure that your dental bridge fits perfectly, looks natural, and complements your facial features.

Schedule a consultation with us, where a dentist will assess your oral health, discuss your concerns, and recommend the best treatment for your missing tooth. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions about the treatment and learn more about the benefits of dental bridges.

Contact Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry today to book your appointment and take the first step toward a confident smile.

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