Traditional bridge
Crowns on the teeth on each side of the gap hold one or more false teeth in place.
Dental bridges in North Texas
A missing tooth leaves a gap that can make chewing harder and let nearby teeth drift out of place. A dental bridge fills that gap with a false tooth held in place by the teeth or implants on either side. Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge stays in your mouth.
About Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is a single piece made of one or more false teeth, called pontics, joined to crowns on each end. The crowns fit over the natural teeth next to the gap, which are shaped to support them. An implant-supported bridge uses dental implants instead of natural teeth for support.
Reasons patients choose a bridge
- One or a few teeth missing in a row
- Healthy teeth or implants on both sides of the gap
- Difficulty chewing on the side with the gap
- Nearby teeth starting to shift or tilt into the space
- Wanting a fixed option instead of a removable partial denture
Treatment options
Implant-supported bridge
Dental implants support the bridge, so the neighboring natural teeth do not need to be shaped.
Bonded bridge
In some cases a false tooth is held by small wings bonded to the backs of nearby teeth, with less tooth shaping.
What to expect
- 1
Exam and options
Your dentist checks the gap, the supporting teeth and your bite, and compares a bridge with an implant or partial denture.
- 2
Prepare the supporting teeth
The teeth next to the gap are numbed and shaped for crowns, unless implants will support the bridge.
- 3
Impression and temporary
An impression or scan is taken and a temporary bridge protects the teeth while yours is made.
- 4
Fit and cement
Your bridge is checked for fit, bite and appearance, then cemented in place.
Benefits
- Fills the gap with a fixed tooth that does not come out
- Restores chewing and speaking
- Helps keep nearby teeth from shifting
- Usually takes less time than an implant
Risks and limitations
- Traditional bridges require shaping healthy neighboring teeth for crowns
- Decay or gum problems in the supporting teeth can cause the bridge to fail
- Cleaning under the false tooth takes extra effort every day
- A traditional bridge does not replace the tooth root, so the bone under the gap can still shrink
Recovery and aftercare
- Clean under the false tooth daily with a floss threader, special floss or a water flosser
- Brush twice a day and keep regular cleanings and checkups
- Avoid biting very hard objects with the bridge
- Call the office if the bridge feels loose or the supporting teeth become sensitive
Cost, insurance and financing
Bridge costs depend on how many teeth are replaced, the materials and whether implants are used. You receive a written estimate after your exam. Many dental plans cover part of a bridge, and the team can review insurance and financing options with you.
Ask your nearest office
Availability of this service can vary by office. Call the office you plan to visit to confirm.
Frequently asked questions
Bridge or implant: which is better?
It depends on your teeth and bone. A bridge uses the neighboring teeth for support, so those teeth are shaped for crowns. An implant replaces the root and does not involve nearby teeth. Your dentist explains the pros and cons for your case.
How long does a dental bridge last?
Many bridges last for years. Daily cleaning under the bridge and healthy supporting teeth help it last longer.
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
Most patients eat normally once they are used to the bridge. Avoid very hard foods and objects that could crack it.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Use a floss threader, special bridge floss or a water flosser to clean under the false tooth every day, along with brushing twice a day.
Related services
Dental Crowns
A crown covers and protects a tooth that is too damaged or weak for a filling alone.
Dental Implants
Replace one tooth, several teeth or a full arch with implants that look and work like natural teeth.
Dentures & Partial Dentures
Full and partial dentures restore your smile and chewing when some or all of your teeth are missing.
Tooth Extractions
When a tooth cannot be saved, a careful extraction protects your health and prepares you for what comes next.
Ready to book?
¡Hablamos Español! Spanish-speaking front desk and dental assistants at every office.
¡Hablamos Español!Spanish-speaking front desk & dental assistants