Restorative Dentistry Services
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance that can be a convenient way to help you restore your smile when you have one or more missing teeth. The bridge gets its name because it literally “bridges the gap” between the remaining teeth.
There are several types of bridges are available: Cantilever, Maryland Bonded, and traditional or fixed. Of these options, fixed bridges are the most popular because they closely replicate the look and feel of natural teeth. This type of bridge consists of a pontic (artificial tooth) that is fused between dental crowns applied to the teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth).
Unlike removable partial dentures, fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth. They remain in place as you eat, speak and sleep—just like natural teeth. For this reason, some people choose to upgrade from a removable appliance to a fixed bridge.
Dental bridges are highly durable and with proper care can last more than ten years; however, they may need repair or replacement due to normal wear.
A fixed bridge will:
Getting a bridge usually requires two visits. During the first visit, our team will numb and prepare the neighboring teeth so that the abutment crowns can be placed. Next, a highly accurate impression is taken and sent to a dental laboratory. This will be used to create a model of your smile so that your future restoration is precisely made to your smile. While you permanent fixed bridge is being fabricated at the laboratory (a process that takes several weeks), our Beverly Hills, MI dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and to ensure your smile stays functional throughout the treatment process.
During your second visit, your new custom bridge will be carefully inspected, adjusted, and precisely and permanently cemented into place. In order to allow your teeth and gums to get used to the new appliance, your dentist may choose to apply temporary cement, waiting until a subsequent visit to permanently cement the bridge in place.
At Birmingham Family Dentistry, we use the latest technology and finest materials available to comprehensive family dentistry to produce porcelain fixed bridges that offer superior fit, function and aesthetics. We will provide you with instructions on how to care for your new appliance. As with natural teeth, proper oral hygiene, good eating habits and regular dental visits will help maintain the life of your porcelain fixed bridge.
Feel free to contact us at 248-600-5008 if you have any questions about fixed porcelain bridges or to schedule a smile consultation with our team.
Dental bridges can last between 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care, including good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. The longevity of your bridge will depend on factors such as your bite, diet, and maintenance routine.
Traditional dental bridges are fixed in place and cannot be removed. They are bonded securely to your adjacent teeth or implants. However, there are removable bridge options known as partial dentures, which function differently.
The answer depends on what you have done. Teeth whitening, for instance, will need to be done again when results start to fade. Dental implants, on the other hand, can last indefinitely. The longevity of dental bridges, inlays, overlays, veneers, and crowns will vary based on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and similar factors.
No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and every member of your family and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.
Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Birmingham Family Dentistry. When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental office in Beverly Hills.
Our compassionate and skilled team is committed to restoring the health and function of your smile, no matter your age. We offer a full range of restorative dentistry services to address various dental concerns and help you regain a confident, healthy smile. From children to seniors, we provide personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of every family member.
Whether you’re dealing with cavities, damaged teeth, or missing teeth, our restorative treatments—such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental implants—are designed to bring back the strength and appearance of your natural teeth. Our goal is to make the process smooth and comfortable, ensuring your dental visits are as stress-free as possible.
If you’re facing any dental issues, we are here to help restore your smile and improve your oral health for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our restorative dentistry services and how we can help you achieve a beautiful, fully functional smile.
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