- What Is A Dental Bridge?
- What Can I Expect with Dental Bridges?
- What Can I Expect After Getting a Dental Bridge?
- What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?
- Benjamin Lievense, DDS Reviews
- Who Is A Good Candidate for A Dental Bridge?
- Dental Bridge FAQs
- Dental Bridge Restorations
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
- Related Posts
What Is A Dental Bridge?
If one or more of your teeth are missing, it's not just a cosmetic problem — gaps in your teeth can cause your remaining teeth to shift. This can result in extra tension in your bite, increased pain when you chew, or even difficulty speaking. A bridge improves the appearance and health of your smile by covering gaps using a false tooth that is supported by either crowns, dental implants, or a combination of both. At Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI, we offer custom bridges made with top-quality materials that will help to give you back your smile. If you have missing teeth, please schedule an appointment to learn more about your restoration options with a dental bridge.
What Can I Expect with Dental Bridges?
After your supporting teeth are filed down to prepare them, we will take digital x-rays and impressions of your teeth so your custom bridge can be created. If needed, a temporary bridge may be placed while your custom one is crafted. As soon as your restoration is ready, the needed areas of your mouth will be given local anesthesia. Stronger anesthesia or sedation options may be discussed for fears, anxieties, or trouble with a gag reflex so that you will be comfortable during the placement. Your bridge can be cemented into its position or connected to dental implants based on the support selected during your consultation. The bridge will be adjusted so it feels right and remains in place.
What Can I Expect After Getting a Dental Bridge?
Once your dental bridge is in place, you should experience a significant improvement in both the function and appearance of your teeth. In some cases, a follow-up visit to Benjamin Lievense, DDS, may be needed to adjust the fit if the bridge feels loose during the first few weeks. Dr. Lievense and his team will guide you on how to care for your bridge, including cleaning tips and any foods you might need to avoid. Maintaining a clean bridge and mouth is important, as decay can develop beneath the restoration. With proper care, your bridge can serve you well for many years. It's also important to continue scheduling regular check-ups at Benjamin Lievense, DDS, including annual dental exams and biannual cleanings. During these visits, Dr. Lievense will evaluate the condition of your bridge to determine if any repairs or replacements are necessary.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges offer various benefits for people looking to replace lost teeth and refresh their oral wellness and appearance. Dental bridges from Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI can:
- Require minimal upkeep
- Uphold the normal frame of your face
- Offer a durable and long-term tooth replacement remedy
- Renew self-confidence and increase comprehensive well-being
- Prevent surviving teeth from moving out of position
- Deliver bite forces uniformly to shield your natural teeth
- Improve the appearance of your smile by addressing spaces
- Uphold the facial muscles, supporting a healthy aesthetic
- Restore improved chewing and speaking capabilities
Benjamin Lievense, DDS Reviews
Friendly, knowledgeable our whole family sees Dr Ben.
Dr. Ben and the staff were awesome about getting me in for a toothache. Everyone is friendly and helpful!!! Thank you!
Just the best office and dentist. Professional, friendly and care and will go the extra mile if you need help
Professional, competent and friendly. Always a great experience with all staff personnel.
Best Dentist and staff in tricities. no pain, nice, friendly. Like having your momma work on your teeth. Excellent!!!
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Who Is A Good Candidate for A Dental Bridge?
People with missing teeth don't merely have an aesthetic issue — gaps in your teeth may have a powerful impact on the health of your mouth. Your mouth is balanced carefully, and a gap may affect how well you can use it. Over time, a missing tooth can shift teeth, creating problems with your bite (overbite, underbite, crossbite) and atrophy of the gums and jawbone. To place a bridge, the surrounding teeth must be healthy enough to hold the restoration, with sufficient density in the jawbone and gum tissue. Dr. Lievense will assess your gums and jaw at your exam and consultation to help you select the best type of bridge and material.
Dental Bridge FAQs
How can I take care of my dental bridge?
Proper care for a dental bridge means adhering to a routine of brushing and flossing similar to that for your natural teeth. Paying extra attention to cleaning beneath the bridge is essential to prevent plaque buildup. You can use specialized dental floss or interdental brushes to reach these areas effectively. Regular dental check-ups are also vital to ensure your bridge stays in excellent condition and maintains its appearance.
Is it possible to remove or replace a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that is cemented onto your existing teeth or implants so it cannot be removed by the patient. However, if the bridge gets damaged or shows signs of wear over time, a dental professional can replace it. If you notice any issues with the fit or appearance of your bridge, discuss them with your dentist. They can determine if a replacement or adjustment is necessary to maintain its functionality and appearance.
How long can dental bridges last?
Dental bridges can endure for many years, often ranging from 5 to 15 years or more, with adequate care and upkeep. Their longevity depends on several factors, including your oral hygiene routine, eating habits, the quality of the dental materials, and regular visits to the dentist. Eventually, dental bridges might need repairs or replacements due to normal wear and changes in the adjacent teeth and gums.
Dental Bridge Restorations
Even if you don't mind how your smile looks with a gap, it can become a more significant issue if not fixed. Make an appointment to learn more about dental bridges and other options available to fit your unique needs. Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC is pleased to offer high-quality dental bridges that can improve the appearance and health of your smile. Contact our practice in Saginaw, MI to schedule your consultation.