Bridges for Replacing Missing Teeth

A bridge may be used to replace missing teeth, help maintain the shape of your face, or alleviate stress on your bite.

A bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth, looks great, and literally bridges the gap where one or more teeth may have been. Your bridge can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials, and is bonded onto surrounding teeth for support.

The success of any bridge depends on its foundation: the other teeth, gums, or bone to which it is attached. Therefore, it’s vital to keep your existing teeth, gums, and jaw healthy and strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Restoring your smile with a bridge typically requires two appointments. During the initial visit, the teeth on either side of the gap—known as abutment teeth—are carefully prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to allow room for the bridge to fit over them. We then take precise impressions to ensure your custom bridge matches your natural bite. A temporary bridge is provided to protect your teeth while your permanent restoration is being crafted in the lab.

On your second visit, we remove the temporary bridge and fit the permanent one. After making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and comfortable bite, the bridge is securely cemented into place.

A dental bridge is an excellent solution for patients missing one or more teeth who have healthy teeth on either side of the gap to serve as anchors. Beyond aesthetics, replacing missing teeth is vital for your oral health; gaps can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of alignment, leading to bite issues and jaw strain. During a consultation, we will evaluate the strength of your supporting teeth and bone structure to determine if a bridge is the most effective restoration for you.

Dental bridges provide both functional and cosmetic advantages, including:

Restored Function: Regain the ability to chew and speak with ease and clarity.
Aesthetic Enhancement: Fill gaps with natural-looking teeth that match your smile.
Structural Support: Maintain your facial shape by providing the support your lips and cheeks need.
Preventing Tooth Drift: Keep your remaining natural teeth from tilting or shifting into the empty space.
Durability: Enjoy a long-lasting, stable solution that stays fixed in your mouth.