It’s amazing what a simple dental procedure can do for your smile. Although perhaps for us everyday people there’s another word for it- interesting? Unnerving? Strange even? While the language may seem foreign and the procedures, uncomfortable, most dental procedures are truly not as bad as they seem.

Take dental bridges for example- a bridge is a structure that connects two sides right? Simple. If you’ve never specifically heard of a dental bridge, continue reading to find out what they are, reasons to need them and what it entails.

What are dental bridges? A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like.

If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge bridges the gap (okay closes it), but it’s a brilliant way to create a full smile again. The dental bridge is actually just a false tooth held in place by the surrounding teeth, so it blends right in. If you’re on of the few fortunate people who still doesn’t have any missing teeth, lucky you. However according to The American Dental Association, average adults between the age of 20 and 64 have at least 3 decayed or missing teeth. Now you can see why dental bridges are a must have. Fortunately, there are 4 types of dental bridges to choose from, so that your smile is the perfect fit. Make sure to review your options with your dentist.

Reasons to have a dental bridge A dental bridge fills the gap of any missing teeth, but it can do so much more for your smile. One of the major benefits of dental bridges is that they can restore your ability to properly chew and speak; and you definitely don’t want to lose those. At the same time, they can distribute the forces in your bite properly when you chew. Dental bridges not only restore your smile but maintain the shape of your face that could otherwise be impacted by large gaps in the teeth. Finally, if you have missing teeth, you should highly consider getting a dental bridge to prevent other teeth from drifting out of place.

The process Typically, the process for inserting a dental bridge requires at least two visits. At the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth (teeth that the bridge will be attached to). Your dentist will recontour these teeth by removing a small portion of enamel, so that there is room for crowns. Then, your dentist will take impressions of the teeth to use as models for the bridge, crowns, and pontics (fake teeth). You will receive a temporary bridge to wear at this time, in order to protect your teeth and gums.

At your next visit, the temporary bridge will be removed and replaced by the new one. Keep in mind that this will require time to check, adjust, measure, and fit the bridge to your teeth. After that, in some cases, your dentist will require even more follow-up visits to check the fit of the metal framework and bite. Regardless of how many visits it takes, every step is one step closer to your new, healthy smile.

How much do they cost? Just like your smile, dental bridges are not a one size fits all, so there are several factors that go into the cost. Some of these factors include: the number of missing teeth, materials used, complexity of placement, other treatments (ie. Gum disease), and location of the dental bridge.

The good news is most dental insurance plans cover a percentage of the bridge, and today many plans even cover implants. In addition, with proper oral health practices dental bridges can last up to 15 years, so it is the price you pay for a smile that will last.

Sedki Dentistry Commerce MI is a complete family dental clinic that offers services for all dental health concerns. Dental treatments such as bridges are an effective option to replace missing teeth or spaces between teeth. Missing teeth should always be replaced and Dr. Sedki has several dental treatment options to choose from. Our goal is to work with our patients in achieving and maintaining long term dental health and a beautiful smile. Call us today for a Free Consult!