Dentist in Ferndale, MI Performs Dental Bridge Procedures
A missing tooth can impact not only your smile but also your oral health. At Ferndale Dental, our dentist in Ferndale, MI provides custom dental bridge solutions to restore the function and appearance of your teeth, closing any gaps that may be affecting your bite and dental health. A dental bridge is designed to fill the space left by a missing tooth by anchoring a false tooth (known as a pontic) to the adjacent teeth, helping to prevent potential issues like teeth shifting, bite changes, and discomfort.
Why Choose a Dental Bridge?
When there’s a gap in your smile, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift toward the empty space, which can lead to bite misalignment and discomfort. A dental bridge offers a sturdy, natural-looking solution that not only fills the space but also maintains the alignment of your teeth. Our dentist in Ferndale, MI will work with you to determine the best bridge option based on the location of the gap, your dental health, and your specific needs.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are three primary types of dental bridges available at our practice, each suited to different situations:
1. Traditional Fixed Bridge: This is the most common type of bridge, ideal for filling gaps between teeth where there are stable surrounding teeth on both sides. In this approach, porcelain crowns are placed over the adjacent teeth to anchor the bridge, and the pontic, typically made of porcelain or ceramic fused to metal, is positioned between them.
2. Cantilever Bridge: If a gap has only one adjacent tooth, a cantilever bridge may be recommended. This type is generally used in areas with minimal chewing force, such as the front teeth. It provides a functional and aesthetic solution when only one side can act as an anchor.
3. Resin-Bonded Bridge: Also known as a Maryland bridge, this option is typically used for front teeth. It involves a false tooth attached to metal or porcelain wings, which are then bonded to the adjacent teeth using resin. This type of bridge is ideal for areas that require less strength and chewing pressure.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The dental bridge procedure typically requires two visits. During your first visit, our dentist in Ferndale, MI will prepare the surrounding teeth to accommodate crowns. This involves carefully reshaping these teeth to ensure that the crowns will fit comfortably over them. An impression of your teeth is then taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom bridge is created. To protect your teeth during this period, you’ll be fitted with a temporary bridge.
At the second appointment, our dentist in Ferndale, MI will replace the temporary bridge with your permanent bridge from the lab. They will carefully check and adjust the bridge to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance. In some cases, additional visits may be needed for minor adjustments, allowing you to achieve a precise and secure fit for optimal function and comfort.
If you’re considering a dental bridge to restore your smile, contact Ferndale Dental today to schedule a consultation. Our dentist in Ferndale, MI is dedicated to providing personalized, quality care to help you regain confidence in your smile and maintain optimal dental health.
