Dental bridges literally bridge the gap caused by one or more missing teeth — as one or more artificial teeth are cemented into place using the teeth on either side for support. Our Farmington Hills dentists will use a bridge to replace the missing tooth, both functionally and cosmetically.

A dental bridge usually consists of two bridges for the teeth on either side of the gap. The two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and secure the false tooth or teeth in between. These false teeth can be made from gold, alloys, composite resins or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges can also be supported by natural teeth and by implants.

Bridgework is as much an art as it is an exact science. The materials used may be gold alloys, porcelain bonded to metal alloy or all ceramic material made to match your natural tooth color. The choice of material depends on requirements for strength, wear and esthetics.

It is important that a missing tooth be replaced as soon as possible for several reasons. If not treated properly and in a timely manner, the teeth surrounding the gap will begin to shift inward. Since teeth use their neighbors for support, if one is missing they begin to fall and shift into the open spaces. This may worsen your bite due to changes in pressure and can eventually result in problems with the jaw such as TMJ.

To learn more about Farmington Hills bridge dentist Fawaz Ahmed DDS or to request an appointment, please contact us here or call our office directly at 248.553.4740.