How Dental Bridges Help Prevent Teeth from Shifting

Losing a tooth affects more than the appearance of your smile. The space left behind can slowly change the position of your remaining teeth, leading to bite problems, uneven wear, and even more tooth loss down the road. The good news is that a well-planned dental restoration can stop teeth shifting before it starts.  

At Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI, Dr. Benjamin Lievense uses dental bridges to fill gaps left by missing teeth and keep the rest of your smile right where it belongs. Call today to schedule a consultation and help protect your teeth in the long run. 

Why teeth shift over time 

Our teeth naturally support one another. However, when a tooth is lost, that support disappears, and the surrounding teeth begin drifting toward the open space. The tooth above or below the gap may also start to move since it no longer has anything to bite against. 

Teeth shifting tends to happen gradually, which is why many patients don't notice until problems appear, such as:  

• Bite changes: Teeth that move out of position can throw off how your upper and lower teeth come together. 
• New gaps and crowding: As teeth drift, spaces can open in some areas while others become crowded and harder to clean. 
• Increased decay risk: Tilted or crowded teeth trap food and plaque more easily, raising your risk of cavities and gum disease. 

Addressing missing teeth early is one of the most reliable ways to prevent these complications. If this is the case, we may recommend a dental bridge in Saginaw. 

What is a dental bridge? 

So, what is a dental bridge? It's a fixed dental restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of an artificial tooth, called a pontic, anchored in place by crowns fitted over the teeth on either side of the space. Once cemented, it stays in your mouth and functions much like the other natural teeth. 

By physically occupying the space, a bridge blocks neighboring teeth from drifting and gives the opposing tooth something to bite against. It also restores your ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly. 

How we perform dental bridge treatment 

Getting a bridge generally takes two visits to our office. At the first appointment, Dr. Lievense prepares the anchor teeth by reshaping them slightly to make room for the crowns. He then takes impressions, which a dental lab uses to craft a bridge that matches the shape and shade of your natural teeth. You may wear a temporary bridge while yours is being made. 

At the second visit, Dr. Lievense removes the temporary restoration, checks the fit and bite of your bridge, and cements it into place. Most patients adjust to the feel of their new restoration within a few days. 

How long does a bridge last? 

Many patients ask, "How long does a bridge last?" With good care, most bridges stay functional for 10 – 15 years, and some last even longer. Daily brushing, flossing beneath the pontic, and regular checkups all help extend its lifespan. Avoiding habits like chewing ice also protects the restoration from unnecessary stress. 

Protect your smile before problems start 

A single gap in your smile can set off a chain reaction of teeth shifting, bite problems, and further tooth loss, but it doesn't have to. If you have questions such as, "What is a dental bridge?" or "How long does a bridge last?" Dr. Benjamin Lievense is happy to walk you through your options. Schedule a consultation at Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI today and find out how a custom dental restoration can help keep your teeth where they should be.