Dental Bridge

Used to replace one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge is a common procedure that involves the help from a neighboring tooth or teeth. By using neighboring teeth, the dentist can maintain structure, restore function and appearance of your smile. The dentists of North Pointe Dental Associates offer several different types and the doctors work closely with you and our in-house dental lab to fabricate the best bridge for your mouth. A bridge or dental implants are necessary for individuals who are missing teeth, as missing teeth can cause a slew of oral health problems and lead to shifting of the teeth, change in bite, speech impediments, gum disease, and even TMJ problems.

A dental bridge is a permanent restoration that will allow you to eat and speak comfortably, and smile with confidence. Once placed, a bridge cannot be removed. Our dentists will recommend the best type of bridge and material for you based on your oral health, aesthetic goals, lifestyle and other factors.

Using a Dental Bridge to Restore Your Teeth

Prior to receiving your dental bridge, we will closely examine your mouth and recommend the best type of dental bridge. Dental bridges can be fabricated using a combination of porcelain and metal, porcelain and gold, or other durable, metal-free materials.

A dental bridge is comprised of one or more false teeth called pontics, which are connected by retainers. The retainers sit on the abutment teeth, the natural teeth that support the dental bridge on either side.

After taking X-rays and impressions of the treatment area, the surrounding teeth are prepared to support the bridge. The impressions are sent to our on-location dental lab, where a lab technician fabricates the restoration. A temporary bridge is placed in the mouth while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. The entire treatment is performed under local anesthesia and patients must return a second time to have their permanent bridge fitted and cemented.