Reviewed by Dr. Wael Sadek, DDS·[date pending review]
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining a false tooth to crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap. Those support teeth hold the bridge in place. A bridge is fixed, so you do not take it out at night. It helps you chew, speak clearly, and keep nearby teeth from drifting.
When a tooth is missing, the teeth next to the gap can tip or shift. The tooth above or below can also move into the space. Over time, this can change your bite and make teeth harder to clean.
Signs a bridge may help
- You are missing one tooth, or a few teeth in a row.
- Nearby teeth have started to shift into the gap.
- Chewing on one side feels hard or uneven.
- You recently had a tooth removed and want to replace it.
- You feel self-conscious about a gap when you smile.
A bridge is not the only choice. A removable partial denture is another way to fill a gap. Ask us whether a dental implant is an option for you. Dr. Sadek will explain the choices that fit your mouth after an exam.
What happens at the visit
- Exam and imaging. The dentist checks the support teeth and gums and uses digital imaging to see the roots and bone. The support teeth need to be healthy and strong.
- Numbing. The area is numbed so you feel pressure, not sharp pain.
- Shaping the support teeth. A thin layer is removed from the teeth on each side of the gap so crowns can fit over them.
- Recording the shape. The office uses 3D scanning and digital imaging. The dentist will explain how your bridge is measured.
- Temporary bridge. A temporary bridge protects the shaped teeth while the final bridge is made.
- Fitting the final bridge. The dentist checks the fit and your bite, then cements the bridge in place.
Bridge materials offered: [OFFICE TO CONFIRM: bridge materials offered].
Caring for your bridge
A bridge needs daily cleaning, just like natural teeth. Food and plaque can collect under the false tooth. Use a floss threader or a small brush that fits under the bridge, and brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. We can show you how at your visit.
Some sensitivity in the support teeth is common for a few days. Avoid chewing very hard foods, ice, or hard candy on the bridge. Call us if your bite feels uneven or the bridge feels loose. Regular checkups let the dentist check the support teeth and the gums around them.
Cost factors
The cost of a bridge depends on how many teeth it replaces, the materials, the health of the support teeth, any treatment they need first, and your insurance plan. We accept dental insurance, so call to check whether we work with your plan. CareCredit can spread larger treatment into monthly payments. We also take cards and tap-to-pay. Ask for an estimate before treatment. Read about insurance and payment.
Why families choose our office
Dr. Wael Sadek explains each tooth-replacement choice in plain words, including what a bridge asks of the teeth next to the gap. You get time to ask questions and decide what fits your life. Outcomes vary, and he will explain your options after an exam. He speaks English and Arabic.
Americana Family Dental is in Americana Plaza in Orlando, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restroom. We are open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Appointments are recommended. Call (407) 850-0133.
Questions patients ask
How long does a dental bridge last?
A bridge can last many years with good care, but how long depends on the health of the support teeth, your gums, your bite, and your daily cleaning. Decay or gum disease around the support teeth is a common reason a bridge needs to be replaced. Regular checkups help catch problems early.
Bridge or partial denture: which is right for me?
A bridge is fixed in place and feels closer to natural teeth, but it needs healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. A partial denture is removable and can replace teeth in more than one spot. Dr. Sadek will explain which choice fits your mouth and why.
Is it hard to clean under a bridge?
It takes a little practice. Food can collect under the false tooth, so you need a floss threader or a small brush that slides under the bridge. Once you learn the routine, it becomes part of your normal brushing and flossing. We can show you how at your visit.
