144 N Frost Dr #1, Saginaw, MI 48638
Closing the Gap a Missing Tooth Leaves Behind
A missing tooth affects more than just your smile. Over time, it can allow neighboring teeth to shift out of position, change the way you bite and chew, and place added strain on the teeth that remain. A dental bridge offers a fixed, reliable way to fill that gap, restoring both function and appearance without the need for surgery.
At Saginaw Family Smiles, our bridges are custom crafted to match the shape, size, and shade of your natural teeth, blending seamlessly into your smile. Our Saginaw team focuses on helping you understand your replacement options clearly, so you feel confident in the path forward, whether that is a bridge or another restorative solution.
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What Is a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth, called a pontic, to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. The teeth used for support are called abutment teeth, and they are typically covered with crowns that connect to the pontic, forming a single, stable structure that bridges the space left by the missing tooth or teeth.
Once placed, a bridge functions much like natural teeth, allowing you to bite and chew normally while restoring the appearance of a complete smile. Because a bridge is fixed in place rather than removable, it does not require the daily removal and cleaning routine associated with a partial denture.
Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters
Neighboring teeth can gradually shift or tilt into the space, affecting your bite alignment
- Opposing teeth may over-erupt into the gap, since there is no longer a tooth to bite against
- Chewing efficiency decreases, which can affect digestion and nutrition over time
- Facial structure can be affected in cases of multiple missing teeth
- The gap can create additional strain on the remaining teeth during biting and chewing
- Confidence in your smile can be affected, particularly if the missing tooth is visible
The Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge at our Saginaw office typically involves two main visits.
Preparing the Abutment Teeth
The teeth on either side of the gap are reshaped to allow room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge.
1
Taking an Impression
A detailed impression or digital scan of the prepared teeth and the gap is taken, which is used to fabricate your custom bridge in a dental lab.
2
Placing a Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain function and appearance while your permanent bridge is being made.
3
Fabricating Your Custom Bridge
Your permanent bridge is crafted to match the shape, size, and shade of your natural teeth for a seamless result.
4
Fitting the Permanent Bridge
Once ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and your permanent bridge is checked carefully for fit and bite before being securely bonded into place.
5
Determining If a Bridge Is the Right Fit
A dental bridge is often a good option for patients who:
- Are missing one or more teeth and want a fixed, non-removable solution
- Have healthy, strong teeth on either side of the gap that can support a bridge
- Prefer a shorter treatment timeline compared to implant placement
- Are not candidates for or do not wish to pursue dental implants
- Want to prevent further shifting of teeth around an existing gap
Restore Your Smile and Your Bite
A missing tooth does not have to be permanent. Schedule your dental bridge consultation with Saginaw Family Smiles today.
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