How Dental Bridges Help Prevent Teeth from Shifting

If you have a missing tooth, you may be worried that your other teeth will move out of place. The good news is that restorative dentistry offers ways to prevent this from happening. At the office of Dr. Todd K. Baum, DDS, PC, we may recommend a dental bridge. A bridge can fill the gap and keep your surrounding teeth from shifting.  

Dr. Todd K. Baum is proud to offer custom bridges using high-quality materials and techniques. If you want to know more about bridges and how this tooth replacement option can help, call today for a consultation in Grand Ledge, MI. 

Why teeth shift after tooth loss 

Losing a tooth can affect more than just your appearance. That gap can lead to serious oral health problems down the road. The teeth surrounding the empty space will naturally start to shift out of place, which leads to misalignment, bite problems (like overbites or underbites), difficulty chewing or speaking, and even jaw tension. 

On top of that, the jawbone underneath the gap can start to weaken from lack of use. That's where a solution like a dental bridge may help. 

What is a dental bridge? 

So, what is a dental bridge? This restorative dentistry solution involves placing a false tooth to fill the gap, supported by crowns or implants. 

There are several types of dental bridges:  

• Traditional dental bridge: The most common type, supported by crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap. 
• Cantilever bridge: Used when there's only one natural tooth next to the gap. 
• Maryland bonded bridge: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. 
• Implant-supported bridge: Anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. 

If you're considering this tooth replacement option, Dr. Baum will assess your gums, jawbone, and surrounding teeth to help you choose a type of bridge and material. 

How dental bridges are placed 

The process begins with preparing the surrounding teeth. If you're receiving a traditional dental bridge for a missing tooth, the adjacent teeth are filed down slightly to accommodate the crowns. 

Dr. Baum will then take digital scans of your mouth. If needed, a temporary bridge or restoration can be placed while your long-term one is being made at the lab. 

Once your restoration is ready, you'll return for the placement appointment in Grand Ledge, MI. The treatment area will be numbed, and the bridge will be attached using either dental adhesive or implants. Dr. Baum will carefully adjust the bridge so it feels comfortable and remains securely in place. 

Recovering after a dental bridge 

Recovery from a dental bridge is generally straightforward. You may experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days as you adjust to the new restoration, but this typically resolves quickly. 

At home, you should care for your dental bridge by brushing and flossing regularly. Special floss threaders or interdental brushes can help you clean around the bridge. During future visits, our team will continue to monitor the bridge to ensure it fits comfortably. 

Explore your tooth replacement options 

Do you have questions such as, "What is a dental bridge?" or "Which tooth replacement option is best for me?" Dr. Todd K. Baum specializes in restorative dentistry and can create a custom traditional dental bridge or implant-supported solution to restore your smile. 

Whether you're dealing with a missing tooth and want to prevent your teeth from shifting, the office of Dr. Todd K. Baum, DDS, PC, in Grand Ledge, MI is here to help. Call today to schedule your consultation.