What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance that fixes the problem of missing teeth, and there are several different types of bridges.

Traditional bridge: This is the most popular type of dental bridge and is usually made of porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth, known as the abutment teeth; the bridge is attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap tooth loss has caused. The bridge will last many years but may need to be re-cemented due to normal wear and tear.

Why Would I Need a Dental Bridge?

Fixed dental bridges are an ideal tooth replacement options for any of the following circumstances:

  • Prevent teeth from shifting out of their position when there is added space on either side
  • Enhance your smile
  • Fill the space that missing teeth have left
  • Maintain a natural-looking facial appearance
  • Upgrade from dentures to a fixed missing teeth solution
  • Restore your ability to chew and speak without difficulty
  • Fill the space that missing teeth have left
  • Maintain a natural-looking facial appearance
  • Prevent teeth from shifting out of their position when there is added space on either side
  • Restore your ability to chew and speak without difficulty
  • Enhance your smile
  • Upgrade from dentures to a fixed missing teeth solution

The Dental Bridge Process

Many fixed bridges can be created and placed in just one visit to our Jacksonville, NC dental office.

After the area is numbed using a local anesthetic, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to allow for the crown. Then, an impression is made that will be sent to the lab (or kept in-house) so the bridge can be created. A temporary bridge will be made, and you will wear that while the permanent fixed dental bridge is made. This could take 2-4 weeks.

At the next appointment (if two are required), your permanent dental bridge will be inspected, adjusted, and cemented once a perfect fit is achieved. Occasionally, our dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge so your teeth can get used to it, and then the new bridge will be cemented permanently at another visit.

As with any dental procedure, we will explain the entire process, answer any questions, and provide detailed after-care instructions. Please don’t hesitate to contact us after leaving our office if you have additional questions as you go about your life following the placement of your fixed dental bridge. You can reach us by phone or online contact form.

You may need a dental bridge if you’re missing one or more teeth. As the name indicates, it bridges the gap of missing teeth and restores your smile, your ability to chew and speak normally, and your self-confidence. A dental bridge is an affordable tooth replacement option, and you’ll be happy to know that most insurance companies will cover this service, at least in part. As with all procedures, for those without dental insurance, we offer financing options like CareCredit® and Sunbit, and we take debit cards, all major credit cards, checks, and cash.

Contact Us Today

If you’re missing teeth and want to learn more about tooth replacement options in Jacksonville, please call Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry at (910) 353-5171. You may also fill out our online contact form, and one of our team members will reach out soon to help with scheduling and answer any questions you may have. You need not suffer one more day with the embarrassment of missing teeth, and getting a fixed dental bridge will help your remaining teeth stay healthy and strong.