Missing teeth can cause various problems, including shifting of remaining teeth, difficulty chewing and speaking, TMJ disorders, bite problems, and bone loss. Replacing missing teeth with fixed bridges can prevent these problems and restore your smile.
A fixed bridge is a dental restoration that we, at Brandon H. Barton Jr., D.D.S., P.C., recommend to patients who need to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges are permanently cemented into place and consist of prosthetic teeth, called pontics, anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.
Types of Bridges
Traditional Bridge
This type of bridge consists of two crowns placed on the abutment teeth and a false tooth in the middle called a pontic. The false tooth can be made from porcelain fused with metal, ceramic materials, or gold. Natural teeth or dental implants can support this type of bridge.
Cantilever Bridge
This type of bridge is used when there is only one natural tooth next to the missing tooth. It’s similar to a traditional bridge, but the pontic is not attached to two adjacent teeth. Instead, it is supported on only one side by a dental crown attached to the abutment tooth.
Maryland Bridge
This type of bridge uses two natural abutment teeth to support the bridge. Metal wings are bonded to the back of the abutment teeth to secure the false tooth in place.
Implant-Supported Bridge
This type of bridge uses dental implants instead of relying on neighboring teeth for support. Two implants are placed in the jawbone, one on each side of the gap created by the missing tooth. These implants then hold the bridge in place.
The Advantages of Fixed Bridges
Improved Appearance
Missing teeth can cause your face to look sunken or collapsed. Replacing them with a fixed bridge restores your facial structure and improves your smile.
Improved Chewing Ability
Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly. A fixed bridge in Detroit, MI, can restore your ability to chew normally.
Improved Speech
Missing teeth may cause you to slur your words. A fixed bridge can help you speak more clearly.
Tips to Improve the Longevity of a Fixed Bridge
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between the bridge and the gums.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing to rinse away any lingering bacteria.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, fingernails, pens, pencils, etc., as these can damage your bridge.
- If you grind your teeth at night, talk to our dentist about getting a night guard to protect your natural teeth and bridge.
- Visit our dentist in Detroit, MI, regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Fixed dental bridges restore missing teeth and revitalize your smile's appearance and function. If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth and want to learn more about fixed bridges, visit Brandon H. Barton Jr., D.D.S., P.C., at 11200 E McNichols Rd., Detroit, MI 48234, or call (313) 521-6400.
