Missing a tooth can make chewing hard and smiling stressful. A dental bridge is a safe, proven way to fill that gap and bring back your bite and your confidence. On this page, you’ll learn what a dental bridge is, how it compares to a dental implant, what to expect during treatment, and the main types of bridges your dentist may recommend.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a custom-made tooth replacement that fills the space where one or more teeth are missing in a row. The false tooth or teeth in the middle are called pontics. They are held in place by the teeth or implants on each side, which act as anchors.
- How it works: The anchor teeth (called abutment teeth) are prepared to support the bridge. The bridge is then made to match your bite and shade so it blends with your smile. Once it’s cemented in place, it does not come out.
- Materials: Bridges can be made from porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal alloys, or a mix of these. Porcelain and zirconia are popular because they look natural and are strong.
- Why people need a bridge: A bridge fills a gap, keeps nearby teeth from shifting, supports your bite, and can improve speech and chewing. It also helps protect the shape of your face by keeping your bite stable.
- Who is a good candidate: You may be a good candidate if you are missing one or more teeth in a row, have healthy gums, and have strong anchor teeth or dental implants to support the bridge.
With good care, a dental bridge can last 10 years or more. Many last 15 years or longer with regular cleanings and great home care.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Both bridges and dental implants replace missing teeth, but they do it in different ways.
- What is a dental implant? An implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone. It acts like a tooth root and supports a single crown, a bridge, or a denture. Implants help keep the jawbone strong because they stimulate the bone when you chew.
- How they compare:
- Procedure: A bridge usually takes two visits and does not require surgery. An implant involves a minor surgery and time for the bone to heal around the post before the final tooth is attached.
- Impact on nearby teeth: A traditional bridge uses the teeth next to the gap for support, which means those teeth are shaped to fit crowns. An implant does not affect neighboring teeth.
- Time: Bridges are often faster to complete, sometimes in just a few weeks. Implants take longer because of healing time, often a few months.
- Bone health: Implants help preserve bone. Bridges do not replace the root, so they do not stimulate the bone.
- Cost and coverage: Costs vary by case. Bridges may be covered more often by dental insurance. Implants may have higher upfront cost, but they can be a long-term solution.
- Which is right for you? If you want a quicker, non-surgical option and have healthy anchor teeth, a bridge is a great choice. If you want to avoid treating the neighboring teeth and you have enough bone, an implant may be best. Your dentist will review your goals, your oral health, X-rays, and your budget to help you decide.
What to Expect
Getting a dental bridge is a simple and predictable process. Most people feel comfortable during and after treatment.
- First visit: Your dentist will examine your mouth, take X-rays or a 3D scan, and talk with you about your goals. You will discuss options, including bridge types and materials. If you choose a bridge, the anchor teeth are gently shaped so the bridge fits well. A digital scan or impression is taken and sent to a dental lab. You’ll leave with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and keep your smile looking natural.
- Between visits: The lab crafts your custom bridge to match your bite and tooth color. This can take about 1–2 weeks. While you wear the temporary bridge, avoid very sticky or hard foods on that side and brush gently along the gumline.
- Second visit: Your dentist removes the temporary, tries in the final bridge, checks the fit and color, and makes any needed adjustments. Once everything feels right, the bridge is bonded or cemented into place. Your bite is checked to make sure it’s even and comfortable.
- Aftercare: It’s normal to have mild sensitivity for a few days. Brush twice a day and floss daily. Use a floss threader or small interdental brush to clean under the bridge. Keep regular checkups and cleanings so your bridge and gums stay healthy.
- Comfort and longevity tips: Avoid chewing ice and very hard foods with your bridge. If you grind your teeth at night, ask about a night guard. With good care, your bridge can last many years.
Types of Dental Bridges
Your dentist will recommend the type that best fits your mouth, your bite, and your goals.
- Traditional Bridge: The most common type. It uses crowns on the teeth on both sides of the gap with a pontic in the middle. It’s strong, looks natural, and works well when you have healthy anchor teeth on both sides.
- Cantilever Bridge: Used when there is a tooth on only one side of the gap. It can be a good option in select areas, often where the biting force is lighter. Not usually used in the back where chewing pressure is highest.
- Maryland (Resin-Bonded) Bridge: Uses a wing or framework that bonds to the back of the neighboring tooth or teeth, with minimal shaping of those teeth. Often used to replace a single missing front tooth. It’s conservative but may not be as strong as a traditional bridge under heavy bite forces.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: Supported by one or more dental implants instead of natural teeth. A great choice when several teeth are missing in a row or when nearby teeth are not strong enough for crowns. It helps preserve bone and does not involve the neighboring teeth.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean under the bridge daily using a floss threader, super floss, or a small interdental brush.
- Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
- Keep your regular dental checkups and professional cleanings.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit very sticky, hard, or super crunchy foods on the bridge.
- If you notice looseness, sensitivity, or changes in your bite, call your dentist right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does a bridge look natural? Yes. Modern porcelain and zirconia bridges are color-matched to blend with your smile.
- Will it hurt? You’ll be numbed during the appointment. Most people feel only mild soreness or sensitivity afterward, which fades in a few days.
- How long does it last? With good care, many bridges last 10–15 years or longer.
- Is a bridge right for children or teens? It depends on growth, the tooth location, and your dentist’s advice. Sometimes a temporary solution is used until growth is complete.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re missing a tooth and want a fast, natural-looking fix, a dental bridge could be the perfect solution. Schedule a visit to get a personalized plan and see which option, bridge or implant, fits your needs, timeline, and budget. Your smile, comfort, and health come first.
Call (610) 525-4910 or use our online form to request your appointment.