What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) restoration designed to replace one or more missing teeth by literally “bridging” the empty space in your smile. The restoration works by securing artificial teeth, called pontics, to either your natural teeth or to dental implants placed on each side of the gap. This not only restores the function of your bite but also improves the appearance of your smile and helps maintain proper alignment of your remaining teeth. By filling the space, a bridge prevents neighboring teeth from shifting, which can otherwise lead to bite problems, jaw strain, or further tooth loss. At our Onslow County, NC dental office, we provide custom dental bridges that are carefully crafted to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, giving you a strong, natural-looking solution that protects both your confidence and long-term oral health.
Traditional Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is one of the most common restorative treatments for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row. This approach involves placing crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, which serve as anchors for the artificial teeth in between.
- Typically made of porcelain-fused-to-metal, zirconia, or all-ceramic materials
- Blends naturally with your existing teeth
- Restores chewing and speaking ability
- May need replacement after years of wear
While traditional bridges are reliable, they require reshaping healthy teeth to serve as supports, which is why many patients also explore implant-supported options.
Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge uses dental implants instead of natural teeth for support. Implants are small titanium posts placed in the jawbone, which act like artificial tooth roots. This option offers several advantages:
- Preserves healthy neighboring teeth (no need to grind them down for crowns)
- Helps maintain jawbone health and facial structure
- Provides excellent stability and durability
- Functions like natural teeth for eating and speaking
Implant-supported bridges are popular for patients who want a longer-lasting, more natural solution.
Full-Arch Fixed Bridges: All-on-4 and All-on-X
For patients missing most or all of their teeth in an arch, All-on-4 and All-on-X implant systems provide a transformative solution. These treatments use four to six strategically placed implants to secure a full-arch bridge that looks and feels like natural teeth.
Full-Arch Support With Fewer Implants
Instead of replacing each tooth with an individual implant, just four to six implants can support an entire arch. This makes treatment more efficient and less invasive while still providing strong, lasting support.
Immediate Function
In many cases, patients receive a temporary bridge or denture attached to the implants on the same day as surgery. This “Teeth in a Day” approach allows you to leave the office with functional teeth while the implants heal.
Ideal for Patients With Bone Loss
The back implants in All-on-4 and All-on-X are often angled to maximize contact with the available bone. This design frequently eliminates the need for bone grafting, making the procedure accessible for patients with bone loss.
Permanent, Non-Removable Solution
Unlike removable dentures, an All-on-4 or All-on-X bridge is fixed in place. It won’t slip, shift, or need to be taken out for cleaning, which helps patients feel confident in social and professional situations.
Improved Quality of Life
With a stable and natural-looking smile, patients often regain confidence, enjoy eating a wider variety of foods, and experience better overall oral health.
Bridge vs. Implant: Which Is Right for Me?
Choosing between a bridge and an implant depends on your oral health, number of missing teeth, and long-term goals. Both options restore your smile, but they differ in how they support teeth and bone.
Here is a simple comparison:
| Feature | Traditional Bridge | Implant-Supported Bridge | All-on-4/All-on-X Full Arch |
| Support | Anchored to natural teeth | Anchored to implants | 4–6 implants support entire arch |
| Effect on Neighboring Teeth | Requires reshaping adjacent teeth | Preserves natural teeth | Preserves natural teeth |
| Bone Health | Does not prevent bone loss | Maintains bone in implant area | Maintains bone across the arch |
| Function | Strong, but may loosen over time | Functions like natural teeth | Full-arch chewing power |
| Longevity | Typically 7–10 years | Often 15+ years with care | Long-term solution with proper maintenance |
| Removability | Fixed | Fixed | Fixed |
Our restorative dentists will guide you through these options and recommend the treatment that best matches your needs, lifestyle, and oral health.
The Dental Bridge Process
Every treatment begins with a consultation, where we take time to understand your goals and evaluate your oral health. Using advanced digital imaging, we create a customized plan tailored to your needs.
Consultation and Imaging
During your first visit, we examine your teeth, take digital impressions or 3D scans, and review treatment options. This step ensures accuracy and a comfortable experience.
Tooth Preparation or Implant Placement
- For traditional bridges: The teeth next to the gap are carefully reshaped to hold crowns.
- For implant-supported bridges: Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal before supporting the bridge.
Temporary and Final Restoration
If your bridge requires lab fabrication, you may wear a temporary restoration while your permanent one is being made. Final bridges are typically placed within 2–4 weeks, though implant-supported bridges may require a longer healing period before the final prosthesis is attached.
Cost, Insurance, and Financing
The cost of a bridge depends on the type of restoration, the number of teeth involved, and whether implants are needed. Traditional bridges are often covered partly by insurance, while implant-supported and full-arch solutions may require more out-of-pocket investment.
We accept most dental insurance plans and offer financing options through CareCredit® and Sunbit. Our team is happy to help you navigate your benefits and payment options so you can receive the care you need without financial stress.
Why Patients Choose Our Restorative Dentists
At Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry, we believe in blending advanced technology with compassionate care. Our Jacksonville team offers everything from single-tooth implants to full-arch All-on-X solutions, so you won’t need to be referred elsewhere for treatment.
Patients appreciate our:
- Comprehensive restorative and cosmetic services
- Use of digital technology for precision and comfort
- Convenient location behind First Citizens Bank on Western Boulevard Extension
- Commitment to long-term patient relationships
Whether you’re replacing one tooth or an entire arch, our dedicated team provide personalized care every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Restore Your Smile With a Fixed Bridge
If you are missing one tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch, our restorative dentists can help you regain a confident, functional smile with a traditional bridge, an implant-supported bridge, or an advanced All-on-X solution. Call our Onslow County dental practice today at (910) 353-5171 or click the button below to schedule your consultation and learn which treatment is best for you.
