Bridge the Gap of Those Missing Teeth

Dr. Egger loves dental implants for tooth replacement…almost as much as Detroit loves Gordie Howe. And what’s not to love? Because they are anchored into the jawbone, dental implants function exactly like a natural tooth. You can eat anything you want without worry. Plus, they last forever — implants are the longest lasting dental prosthetic, often lasting the remainder of the patient’s life.

But some people are missing two or three teeth in one spot. Implants may be more involved than they feel they can handle. They may be too expensive. Or the patient’s jawbone may not have enough mass to support the implants.

In these cases, Dr. Egger replaces the missing teeth with a dental bridge. It may not be as dramatic as the Mackinaw Bridge, but Dr. Egger’s bridges will make your smile look great.

What is a dental bridge?

As the name implies, a dental bridge spans the gap created by a missing tooth or teeth. Like a bridge you drive across, a dental bridge has three parts: two crowns (called the abutment teeth) on each side of the gap and the span in the middle. In this case the span is an artificial tooth or teeth (called the pontics). Bridges are made as a single piece and are permanently cemented onto the two abutment teeth.

This is a description of a traditional bridge, but “cantilever bridges” are used when there are healthy teeth for anchoring on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. “Maryland bridges” are used on the front teeth.

How is a bridge placed?

Bridge placement, like crowns, requires two appointments. During your first appointment, Dr. Egger prepares the two abutment teeth for their crowns. To do so, he removes a portion of the healthy teeth on all sides and on the top. This makes room for the crown to sit atop the tooth, but occupy the same space. Once the teeth are prepared, we take impressions for the lab to use to make your porcelain bridge.

When your new bridge is delivered to our offices, you come back in. First, Dr. Egger checks the bridge to see how the crowns and artificial tooth or teeth match your natural teeth. Then we’ll test the fit. If you prefer, we can place the bridge with temporary cement and you can test it out for a couple of days. Or, if you’re satisfied with the fit, Dr. Egger will permanently cement the crowns onto your teeth.

What is the lifespan of a bridge? Do they need special care?

The life of a bridge is usually dependent upon the health of the abutment teeth. If they remain healthy, a bridge can last up to 15 years or longer. Bridges really only need brushing just like your other teeth.

Want to finally get around to replacing those missing teeth? A dental bridge is a great solution. Call Dr. Egger at (989) 773-3560 to make an appointment.