Tooth loss may result from age, trauma, or decay. Do you have one or more missing teeth? Are they causing you to experience a considerable level of embarrassment or inconvenience? If so, you need to know that your dentist can bridge, or close, the gaps in your smile using dental bridges.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

This is a pontic, or false tooth, held in place by support teeth on either side of the gap. Made of porcelain or other types of materials, false teeth can restore your smile by blending in with your natural teeth.

Dental Bridgework

As stated above, a dental bridge can replace one or more missing teeth. It can restore your dental aesthetics and/or function. If you have one or more missing teeth, you may consider either a permanent or removable dental bridge. Both of these have a crown on either end to support replacement teeth located in the area of the gums with tooth loss. Dental bridges can give you something to smile about.

What Are Fixed Dental Bridges?

This type of dental bridge permanently attaches a false or artificial tooth to your dental implants, abutment teeth, or natural teeth. The natural teeth located on either side of the gap act as supports for the fixed bridge. Fixed dental bridges are a good option for individuals looking to fill a gap between one or more teeth.

What Are Removable Dental Bridges?

These are oral appliances meant to replace missing teeth by connecting to existing teeth. Also referred to as partial dentures, they can help complete your bite and improve your smile. If you are looking for an affordable way to replace one or more of your teeth, removable dental bridges are one of the best options for you.

Difference Between Removable and Fixed Dental Bridges

Removable dental bridges have crowns on each end of the gap. They clasp onto your natural teeth. If you choose to get this type of dental bridge, you will need to take it out every day to clean. Most people who go for removable bridges over fixed ones do so due to their lower cost. Furthermore, removable bridges do not require surgery.

On the other hand, fixed dental bridges function, feel, and look like natural teeth. This is because dentists attach them to dental implants fastened to the patient’s jawbone. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than three million people in the U.S. have dental implants. This number grows by almost 500,000 every year.

What to Expect From Removable Dental Bridges

When you first get this dental bridge, your dentist will tell you how long you need to have it on. At first, you may need to wear your removable dental bridge all the time. This will help your dentist make any necessary adjustments and identify areas of discomfort. You may experience some discomfort at first.

But over time, your speech and eating will improve, and you will feel more comfortable with your removable dental bridge. Your dentist will talk you through the process of removing and replacing your dental bridge.

To learn more about removable dental bridges, visit Riverview Dental at our office in Corunna, Michigan. You can call 989-743-4851 today to schedule an appointment.