An average adult between the ages of 20 and 64 has at least one missing tooth or three diseased teeth that will eventually fall off. If you have tooth loss, this affects how you communicate and function in life. Dental bridges are an effective tooth replacement option to help you overcome tooth loss. At Piney Creek Family Dentistry, we custom make all dental bridges to resemble the shape, look, and function of your natural teeth.
A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dr. Tiffany Fritz and the team offer several dental bridge options to suit different patients’ needs. The two common types of bridges include:
- Traditional bridges: A traditional fixed bridge comprises artificial teeth (pontic) anchored by crowns on either side of the gap. Dr. Fritz prefers porcelain material for dental bridges because it can be color-matched to resemble the shade of your natural teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge: These bridges are similar to traditional bridges but are held in place by implants instead of adjacent teeth. While implant bridges are preferred, patients must wait for several months to allow the implant to heal and fuse with the bone.
If you are missing one or more teeth in a row, a dental bridge can perfectly fill in the gap. Dental bridges are versatile enough to replace missing teeth anywhere in your mouth. Whether you need a dental bridge in the front or back teeth, it’s versatile enough to do the job.
What is The Best Dental Bridge for You?
Ready to restore your smile, confidence, and ability to chew and speak comfortably?
The Piney Creek Family Dentistry team is here to help you explore the best dental bridge option for your needs. We will answer your questions, explain each step of the process, and create a personalized treatment plan. Schedule your visit and take the next step toward a complete, natural-looking smile.
The dental bridge process
You need to commit to at least 2-3 dental appointments to benefit from a traditional bridge. During the first appointment, we evaluate your missing teeth and general dental health to ensure you are free from cavities and gum disease.
If all is good to go, we file down the healthy teeth (abutment) on either side of the gap. We prepare these teeth to ensure they can hold dental crowns to support a bridge. Next, we take your bite impressions and create molds used by a dental lab to fabricate your appliances. We will install a temporary bridge over the prepped teeth until your dental bridges are ready.
After your dental bridge is ready, you will book another appointment for fitment. We usually make several adjustments to ensure your bite feels natural. Finally, we use dental cement and curing light to bond your dental bridge in place.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
Is a dental bridge a good option if I’m missing more than one tooth?
Yes, dental bridges are often used when you’re missing one or several teeth in a row. They’re designed to fill the space so you can chew comfortably and avoid gaps in your smile. If multiple teeth are missing next to each other, a bridge can be a practical and efficient solution compared to replacing each tooth individually.
How long does it take to get a dental bridge from start to finish?
Most patients can expect the process to take a couple of weeks and involve 2 to 3 visits. The first appointment focuses on preparing the teeth and taking impressions, while a temporary bridge is placed in the meantime. Once your final bridge is ready, you’ll return to have it fitted and adjusted so it feels natural when you bite and speak.
Will my dental bridge feel bulky or noticeable in my mouth?
At first, it may feel slightly different simply because it’s new. However, dental bridges are carefully designed to match your bite and the shape of your surrounding teeth. After a short adjustment period, most patients say it feels very natural and doesn’t interfere with daily activities like eating or talking.
Can a dental bridge help improve how I speak?
Yes, missing teeth—especially in certain areas of the mouth—can affect how you pronounce words. A dental bridge helps restore proper spacing and support for your tongue and lips, which can improve clarity in your speech. Many patients notice a difference once they’ve adjusted to their new restoration.
What are the differences between a traditional bridge and an implant-supported one?
A traditional bridge relies on nearby teeth for support, while an implant-supported bridge is anchored by dental implants placed in the jaw. The implant option tends to offer more stability and doesn’t involve altering neighboring teeth, but it does require a longer treatment timeline due to healing. Both options have their advantages depending on your situation.
Will I need to change my daily routine after getting a dental bridge?
Your routine won’t change dramatically, but you’ll need to be a bit more intentional with cleaning. Brushing twice a day remains essential, and you’ll likely add tools like floss threaders or small brushes to clean around and beneath the bridge. These habits help protect both the bridge and the supporting teeth from future problems.
Can a dental bridge break or come loose over time?
While dental bridges are durable, they’re not indestructible. Excessive force from habits like teeth grinding or chewing very hard foods can cause wear or damage over time. In some cases, the cement holding the bridge in place can loosen. Regular dental visits in Centennial, Colorado, help ensure everything stays secure and functioning properly.
What happens to my gums under a dental bridge?
The area beneath a bridge still needs attention, as plaque and food particles can accumulate there. If not cleaned properly, it can lead to gum irritation or infection. With good hygiene and regular check-ups, your gums can stay healthy and continue to support your restoration comfortably for years to come.
Overcome tooth loss with natural-looking dental bridges
Want to discover how dental bridges can benefit your dental health in Centennial, CO? Please dial (303) 562-1051 to book an appointment with Piney Creek Family Dentistry. We offer several dental bridge options to replace your missing teeth.
