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Dental Bridges

Home/Cosmetic Dentistry/Dental Bridges

In the hands of a top cosmetic dentist, bridges are among the most effective dental restorations in the world. Custom-crafted to match the teeth in appearance and function, bridges can provide a durable, aesthetically-pleasing replacement for one or more missing teeth. In addition to facilitating everyday processes (e.g. speaking and eating) and enhancing the appearance of the smile, bridges can prevent complications associated with missing teeth, including shifting of the teeth into the empty gap.

Dr. David R. Newkirk has almost three decades of experience creating and placing sturdy dental restorations to benefit his patients. He can determine whether a dental bridge is the right option for you after personalizing a treatment plan to suit your needs.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A traditional fixed dental bridge involves suspending a false tooth (also called a “pontic”) between two crowns. The pontic fills, or “bridges,” the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. Other variations of this restoration exist, such as Maryland bridges (in which the pontic is supported by thin metal strips attached to the surrounding teeth) and cantilever bridges (which use only one natural tooth for support). The best type of bridge for you will depend on the location of your missing teeth, the condition of your natural teeth, and several other factors.

What Are the Potential Benefits of Dental Bridges?

A well-designed dental bridge can do far more than simply fill a missing tooth. In the hands of a skilled cosmetic dentist, a bridge can:

With the proper materials and expert placement, a bridge can restore both form and function, giving you a durable solution and a smile that looks natural.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges can be a reliable way to complete your smile and restore functionality for many years. While bridges don’t stimulate the jawbone like a dental implant or a natural tooth root, these custom-made restorations can be an excellent option to replace missing teeth for patients who:

A bridge can also be secured using dental implants rather than crowns for patients who still have adequate bone volume, allowing a more stable restoration. Not only does this allow the implant bridge to become a permanent part of your mouth, but it can also improve your oral wellness by preventing further bone loss. Rest assured that Dr. Newkirk and our team can listen to your goals and help you determine the right solution to replace your teeth.

Dental Implants vs. Bridges

While both bridges and dental implants can make excellent replacements for missing teeth, they have a few key differences. Unlike a bridge, which uses surrounding teeth as abutments for the pontic, a dental implant consists of a root form that is surgically placed into the jaw. The presence of the root form not only helps the result look more lifelike, but it helps create a comfortable fit and preserve the bone where the missing tooth used to be. Without the root form, that bone gets reabsorbed by the body and shrinks over time. After it heals, a false tooth is placed on the implant. The result looks very natural, and it functions much as a natural tooth does. An implant is also typically easier to clean and maintain, and there are often fewer chances for complications down the road. With a bridge, if anything happens to any one of the three teeth, such as new decay, the entire bridge has to be replaced; with an implant, for any problem with one tooth, the solution will likely involve only that tooth.

That said, bridges also hold a few potential advantages over implants. After a bridge is placed, there is generally no waiting time for healing, whereas a dental implant may require several weeks to heal and require a temporary tooth during the interim. Bridges are also usually less expensive, and unlike implants, they do not typically require oral surgery.

Your ideal type of tooth replacement is contingent upon the specifics of your case. For example, if the teeth on either side of the missing tooth have large restorations or need crowns anyway, a bridge may be the most sensible option. Patients with insufficient jawbone density may also be best suited for bridges. If you are unsure whether to choose an implant or bridge, Dr. Newkirk can help you decide after a thorough evaluation of your oral health.

Complementary Procedures to Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can not only play a vital role in restoring both form and function after tooth loss, but they can also be part of a more comprehensive cosmetic treatment plan. For patients looking to enhance the overall appearance of their smile, bridges can be combined with certain aesthetic procedures – such as porcelain veneers or a complete smile makeover.

Porcelain veneers can refine the color, shape, and alignment of the surrounding teeth, creating a seamless, uniform look alongside your new bridge. For those seeking broader rejuvenation, Dr. Newkirk can design a smile makeover plan tailored to your goals, incorporating bridges, veneers, professional teeth whitening, and other treatments for a radiant and balanced smile. Our dentist will plan each component carefully, aiming for results that both strengthen the bite and beautify the smile.

What Does the Dental Bridge Procedure Involve?

Once you and Dr. Newkirk decide to move forward with a dental bridge, he will begin the procedure by preparing the adjacent teeth for dental crowns. This part of the process can involve cleaning the teeth, treating periodontal disease, or otherwise ensuring the teeth are healthy and able to support a bridge.

Afterward, Dr. Newkirk will take an impression and give the case to our dental laboratory technician, who will then create the bridge according to the unique shape and shade of your natural teeth. Finally, Dr. Newkirk will cement the bridge onto your teeth using a dental adhesive, finalizing the restoration.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

High-quality dental bridges can last for many years when properly maintained. Taking care of your dental bridges is usually as easy as attending your regularly scheduled cleanings and exams, brushing at least twice a day, flossing, and practicing good overall oral hygiene. Dr. Newkirk also advises you to use caution when biting down on hard foods or objects, as doing so may cause damage to your bridge.

How Do I Care For My Dental Bridges?

Keeping your dental bridge in excellent condition is largely about maintaining consistent, thorough oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss carefully around the bridge to prevent plaque buildup near the supporting teeth. Regular professional cleanings and exams will allow Dr. Newkirk to monitor the bridge’s fit and ensure the surrounding teeth and gums remain healthy.

As stated above, you should also be mindful of how you use your bridge. Avoid biting into very hard foods, ice, or non-food objects, which can cause unnecessary wear or damage. With attentive care and good daily habits, your dental bridge can stay strong, secure, and attractive for many years.

How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?

The average cost of a dental bridge in the United States is approximately $4,325. Please note, however, that the precise cost will depend on a number of factors, such as:

Our team is always happy to make the financial aspect of your care as stress-free as possible. We accept all major credit cards and most insurances and will gladly discuss your benefits with you if you have any questions.

How Do I Choose a Dentist for Dental Bridges?

As with any dental procedure, choosing the right dentist for your bridge is key to achieving a comfortable fit and a natural, long-lasting result. Rather than settling for the first option available, take the time to research and find a provider who aligns with your goals and values.

Look for a dentist with extensive experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, especially in procedures like bridges. Reviewing before-and-after photos can help you see how skillfully they match natural teeth in shade, shape, and alignment. Patient testimonials are another great way to gauge their attention to detail, communication style, and overall approach to care.

Moreover, our cosmetic dentist combines advanced training with a refined artistic eye to design bridges that restore both health and beauty. He will be happy to create a customized treatment plan that allows you to feel confident and proud of your smile once again. To learn more about whether a dental bridge may be right for you, feel free to schedule a consultation with Dr. Newkirk.

Additional FAQs about Dental Bridges

How do I care for my dental bridge?

To care for your dental bridge, it’s important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, attending regular dental exams and cleanings, and avoiding excessive pressure when biting should help keep your bridge in good condition.

Can I whiten my teeth after getting a dental bridge?

Teeth whitening treatments cannot brighten dental bridges the way they do natural teeth. As such, patients are generally advised to undergo teeth whitening before getting a dental bridge placed.* If you already have a bridge and want to whiten your teeth, let Dr. Newkirk know; the two of you can work these goals into your care plan.

Are dental bridges covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans at least partially cover dental bridges. With this in mind, coverage can vary widely, so it’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your plan and any potential out-of-pocket costs. Our office is always here to help you understand your benefits, as well.

Will a dental bridge feel natural in my mouth?

After a short period of acclimation, a dental bridge should feel natural in your mouth. You should be able to speak, chew, and smile as normal. Bridges are custom-made to fit organically within the natural contours and proportions of your mouth, so many patients forget they even have a bridge after becoming accustomed to their restoration. In addition, a bridge is custom-fitted and color-matched to blend in harmoniously with your smile.

Do dental bridges hurt?

While some sensitivity or soreness in the mouth is normal after getting a dental bridge, the actual treatment is performed under local anesthesia and most patients don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Post-treatment discomfort should resolve on its own within the days after your treatment, and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications in the meantime. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to call our office.

Is there downtime after getting a dental bridge?

No, patients are typically able to return to work, school, and their normal routine on the same day of treatment or the day after. That said, you may be advised to stick to soft or liquid foods temporarily while your mouth is still tender. Dr. Newkirk will provide you with detailed post-treatment instructions so you know what to expect after a dental bridge.

If you would like to find out if a dental bridge is right for you, please do not hesitate to contact us today.