Get a Bridge Like Mackinaw
Posted in Dental Bridges | September 15, 2016
When they had to connect the U.P. with the rest of Michigan they opted for a bridge, a great big one called the Mackinaw Bridge.
When you want to span a missing tooth or two, you can also opt for a bridge with Dr. Egger. And since research shows that adults lose an average of one or two permanent teeth before the age of 50, there’s a real need for some bridge building.
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge consists of three crowns that are all attached to each other in a row. They are usually set in either porcelain or porcelain fused to metal. The tooth in the middle, to add a foreign-sounding word, is called a pontic. The other two crowns are typical crowns, but not thorny, and will fit over the existing teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. These teeth, to add another intriguing word, are called the abutment teeth.
How does Dr. Egger place a bridge?
Bridge placement, while much easier than placing the Brooklyn Bridge, does involve two stages. Dr. Egger first examines your adjacent teeth and takes x-rays to be sure they are fit to anchor the bridge. Next he prepares the abutment teeth by removing enamel from all four sides and the top of both teeth. By doing this he makes room to place a crown over each abutment tooth, retaining the same overall width of the original tooth. After shaving down the two abutment teeth, Dr. Egger makes impressions of your teeth for the custom fabrication of your bridge by a dental lab. To protect the two abutment teeth while waiting for your bridge to be made, Dr. Egger will place a temporary bridge on your teeth.
Once the bridge is finished, you’ll return for a second appointment. Dr. Egger adjusts your bridge for maximum comfort and function. If you choose, you can wear the bridge with temporary adhesive so that you’re sure you like the fit. Or, if you’re satisfied, Dr. Egger will cement the bridge onto your teeth permanently.
When this is complete, Dr. Egger will give you detailed instructions for the cleaning and flossing around your bridge to ensure you don’t let food and bacteria build up in any of the gaps or small crevices.
How long do bridges last?
Dental bridges can last from 5-15 years and even longer. The key is good oral hygiene and regular checkups with Dr. Egger.
If you’re missing a tooth or two, call us at 989-773-3560 and let’s see about a dental bridge.