At Blue House Dental, we do everything possible to preserve natural teeth. But when that’s not an option, a dental bridge offers an effective solution for replacing missing teeth.

This procedure involves placing crowns on the healthy teeth adjacent to the gap, which anchor the replacement tooth or teeth securely in place. For long-term success, it's important to have strong, healthy teeth on either side of the gap to support the bridge.

Bridging the gap with a bright, healthy smile

Each replacement tooth, known as a pontic, can seamlessly restore gaps, even when multiple teeth are missing. Bridges can also replace front teeth, delivering a natural-looking, confident smile.

Made from durable materials like ceramic, dental bridges combine strength and aesthetics. Modern options, such as all-ceramic bridges, leverage advanced dental porcelains that are exceptionally strong, ensuring both functionality and beauty. Beyond restoring your smile, dental bridges improve oral function and enhance self-confidence.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge literally bridges the gap left by missing teeth using false teeth, but unlike implants, they don’t require placement into the jawbone. Instead, the bridge connects the replacement tooth to adjacent natural teeth. Dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth, making them a versatile option for many patients.

They’re ideal for those who may not want or are unable to receive dental implants due to gum or jaw health concerns. Implant-supported bridges are another alternative, using dental implants instead of natural teeth for support, offering enhanced strength and stability.

Dental bridges are crafted from materials such as metal, porcelain, zirconia, or combinations of these. There are three main types:

1. Traditional Bridge: The most common type, which places crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap and secures the pontic (false tooth) between them.
2. Cantilever Bridge: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support.
3. Maryland Bridge: Utilizes a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth, ideal for gaps at the front of the mouth.

While bridges like Maryland and traditional varieties are great for front teeth, they may not be suitable for back teeth due to the higher pressure from chewing.

Preparing for a dental bridge

Getting a dental bridge or crown generally requires two visits. During the first appointment, the adjacent teeth are prepared by reshaping and reducing their size to accommodate the restoration. This step ensures the bridge or crown fits comfortably and doesn’t feel bulky. Precise impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom bridge is crafted—a process that takes about two weeks.

In the meantime, a temporary bridge or crown is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain function, comfort, and appearance. At the second visit, the permanent bridge is fitted and securely cemented into place using strong dental adhesive.

How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?

Dental bridges are a versatile solution for replacing multiple missing teeth. Typically, they are used to replace up to three teeth, though in some cases, they can restore up to four consecutive teeth if the adjacent teeth are strong enough to provide adequate support.

The type of bridge used depends on the number of teeth being replaced and the location of the gap:

• Traditional Bridges: Ideal for replacing one to three teeth, anchored by crowns on both sides of the gap.
• Cantilever Bridges: Suitable for filling a single missing tooth when only one adjacent tooth is available.
• Maryland Bridges: Perfect for replacing one or two teeth, particularly at the front of the mouth, thanks to a bonded framework.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: Used for larger gaps, relying on dental implants instead of natural teeth for support to replace several missing teeth.

By filling gaps, dental bridges restore functionality and prevent problems like teeth shifting out of place, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even bone loss. A dental bridge not only revitalizes your smile but also helps maintain oral health and protect your remaining teeth.

Why choose a dental bridge?

Replacing missing teeth is crucial for both your oral health and quality of life. A well-fitted dental bridge restores your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. It also prevents the remaining teeth from drifting into the empty space, which could otherwise lead to alignment issues, gum disease, or even bone loss in the jaw over time.

While dental implants provide another popular tooth replacement option, dental bridges are a less invasive and equally effective solution for many patients. They’re especially suitable for those who wish to avoid surgery or whose oral health isn’t optimal for implants.