The 3D imaging unit at Town Center Dental

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth held by the teeth or implants next to the gap. A fixed bridge stays in place and only a dentist can remove it. Its success depends on the health of the teeth that support it, so daily care and checkups matter.

Request an appointment Call (636) 273-5866

Fixed, not removable

The American Dental Association says a fixed bridge can only be removed by a dentist.

Foundation matters

A bridge depends on its support. Keeping your remaining teeth healthy and strong is very important.

Cleaning needs a plan

You clean under the bridge, not just around it. Your dentist or hygienist can show you how.

Compare with an implant

A bridge and an implant solve the same problem in different ways. Ask about both.

If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can help bridge the gap, restoring the look and function of your teeth. A dental bridge is a row of crowns that bridges the gap between teeth. Loss of teeth can impact your ability to eat, your smile, your gum health, and the position of your teeth in the future. Your treatment is important in preventing unwanted gum disease and orthodontic issues, and restoring your teeth to their full function. Visit us at Town Center Dental to see if a dental bridge is right for you.

What does a dental bridge look like?

A common dental bridge has two components, the abutment teeth and the pontics. Abutment teeth are the anchors of the bridge; they are two crowns that go over the supporting teeth. Those can be your natural teeth or dental implants. Pontics are the false tooth (or teeth). They fill the gap and attach to the crowns.

Do I have any other options besides a dental bridge?

We understand that many of our patients are looking for alternative dental restorations. There are a few options available: partial dentures, or removable false teeth, are a common alternative. Some people choose dental implants, which are surgically placed implants in the jaw. Proper dental hygiene and bi-annual dental exams are key in preventing tooth loss, tooth decay, and avoiding the necessity for this restorative dental procedure. Give us a call at 636-273-5866 to see which option is right for you.

What types of dental bridges are available?

Traditional bridges are made of metal, ceramics, or porcelain fused to metal. Bridges can vary in size and structure depending on the placement along the jaw and surrounding structure. Traditional fixed bridges are the most common bridge. They consist of two or more crowns and a filler tooth that are all connected in a row, the crowns held in place by teeth.

Cantilever bridges are good for people with teeth on only one side of the gap. They consist of a pontic that is connected to only one abutment tooth.

The resin-bonded bridge, or Maryland dental bridge, is good for patients with missing front teeth. They can be ceramic teeth or porcelain fused to metal supported by a framework. Ceramic or metal wings on each side of the bridge bond to the surrounding teeth.

An implant-supported bridge is similar to the traditional fixed bridge, instead of being cemented in place by teeth, it is supported by implants.

Dental procedure for a traditional dental bridge

Preparing and installing a dental bridge will take at least two appointments. First, one of our dentists will prepare the abutment crown teeth. They will reshape the teeth removing part of the enamel and dentin layer to make room for the crowns. Then a digital scan or impression of your teeth is made. The impression or digital scan is sent to a dental laboratory. They will use the mold to create your bridge, false teeth, and crowns. In most cases, you will have a temporary bridge to protect the exposed area in your mouth while the lab prepares your bridge.

Upon your second visit, our dental team will remove the temporary bridge and permanently install your new bridge. Adjustments will be made as necessary ensuring the perfect fit, and what is most comfortable for you.

Town Center Dental is here to provide information and discuss a treatment plan that is right for you. Call us at 636-273-5866.

Bridge or implant: questions to ask

Question	Dental bridge	Dental implant
What holds it?	Crowns on nearby teeth or implants	A post placed in the jaw
Do neighbor teeth change?	Yes, they are shaped for crowns	No
Number of visits	At least two, per the office page	Several over months, per the office page
Daily cleaning	Under the bridge with floss aids	Around the post like a natural tooth
Bone needs	None for the bridge itself	Enough bone, or a graft

How do I clean under a bridge?

A bridge is a fixed row of teeth, so food and plaque can collect underneath. Brushing alone does not reach there. Floss threaders, special floss and interdental brushes can help. Your dentist or hygienist shows you what works for your bridge.

The American Dental Association says the success of a bridge depends on its foundation, so it is very important to keep your remaining teeth healthy and strong. Cavities or gum problems around a supporting tooth can put the bridge at risk.

Keep your checkups. Your dentist looks at the supporting teeth and the gums under the bridge each time. Ask about the right tools at your next visit. Write down your questions before the visit. Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect and explain each step before it starts.

What is a fixed bridge compared with a removable one?

The American Dental Association explains that a removable bridge can be taken out and cleaned, while a fixed bridge can only be removed by a dentist. The office's page describes fixed bridges that sit on abutment teeth and use a false tooth, called a pontic, to fill the gap.

Other designs include the cantilever bridge and the Maryland bridge. Each fits a different mouth. Your dentist can explain which, if any, suits your gap.

If you want to avoid shaping nearby teeth, ask about implants. See the replacing a missing tooth guide for a side-by-side look. If you are unsure, call (636) 273-5866. The team can answer questions and help you book a visit. The office is open Monday to Thursday. Every mouth is different. After your exam, your dentist explains how this applies to you and what your choices are.

How do I know if a bridge or an implant is better for me?

There is no single right answer. It depends on the teeth next to the gap, your gums, your bone and your goals. A bridge uses neighboring teeth for support. An implant stands on its own but needs enough bone.

Your dentist can walk through both. Ask about dental implants, dentures and bridges, then compare the steps, healing time and upkeep. The tooth replacement page gives an overview.

Bring your questions. The office gives you an estimate for your own case rather than posting fees, and can check your insurance. The office does not publish fees. The team looks at your plan and your treatment, then gives you an estimate for your own case. Keep your follow-up visits. They let your dentist check how things are going and answer new questions.

Questions about dental bridge

Read the guideMissing tooth: implant, bridge or partial denture?

Which is better, a dental bridge or an implant?

It depends on your teeth, gums and bone. A bridge uses neighboring teeth for support. An implant stands on its own but needs enough bone. Your dentist can compare both for your gap and explain upkeep, healing time and next steps.

How long do dental bridges last on front teeth?

There is no single number. How long a bridge lasts depends on the materials, the health of the supporting teeth, your gums and your habits. The American Dental Association says success depends on the foundation. Your dentist checks it at each exam.

Can I take a dental bridge out to clean it?

Not a fixed bridge. The American Dental Association says only a dentist can remove a fixed bridge. You clean under it daily with floss aids. Your dentist or hygienist can show you how. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Does getting a bridge change my other teeth?

With a traditional bridge, yes. The dentist reshapes the teeth beside the gap so crowns can fit over them. An implant-supported bridge uses implants instead. Ask which design your dentist suggests and why. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

How do I start?

Call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment. Your dentist examines the gap and the teeth beside it, explains your options and answers your questions before any treatment. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions. Bring your questions to your next visit.

Related services

Sources

American Dental Association MouthHealthy: Bridges

Ready when you are

Request an appointment Call (636) 273-5866