A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) dental restoration designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are securely held in place by dental crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth. Once cemented into place, a dental bridge provides a stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing replacement for your missing teeth, blending seamlessly with your existing smile. It’s a reliable choice for smile restoration right here in Woodland Hills and the surrounding San Fernando Valley.
Receiving a custom dental bridge typically involves two visits to my Woodland Hills dental office. Here’s what you can expect for a traditional bridge:
First Visit: Tooth Preparation & Impression:
Second Visit: Placement of Permanent Bridge:
Replacing missing teeth is crucial for both your oral health and your overall well-being. Leaving gaps in your smile can lead to a cascade of problems over time. During your comprehensive examination at my Woodland Hills dental office, I’ll discuss if a dental bridge is the best solution for your unique situation.
You might need a dental bridge if you have:
I offer various types of dental bridges, and the best choice for you will depend on the location of your missing teeth, the condition of your adjacent teeth, and your individual needs and preferences. We’ll thoroughly discuss all options during your consultation.
Traditional Dental Bridges: This is the most common type of bridge. It involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with the artificial tooth (pontic) in between. They are incredibly strong and reliable.
Cantilever Bridges: Similar to traditional bridges, but the pontic is supported by a dental crown on only one side. This is typically used when there’s only one adjacent tooth available to support the bridge.
Maryland Bonded Bridges (Resin-Bonded Bridges): These bridges are more conservative as they do not require full crowns on the adjacent teeth. Instead, metal or porcelain “wings” on the sides of the pontic are bonded to the back surfaces of the adjacent natural teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridges: When there are multiple missing teeth, and you don’t have enough strong natural teeth to support a traditional bridge, two or more dental implants can be surgically placed. The bridge is then secured directly to these implants.
All our bridges are custom-crafted from high-quality materials like porcelain, zirconia, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, ensuring durability and a natural aesthetic that blends perfectly with your Woodland Hills smile.
Replacing missing teeth is a significant decision, and you want a dentist who combines precision, artistry, and genuine care. Here’s why patients in Woodland Hills, CA trust Smiles By Eddie for their dental bridges:
With proper care and good oral hygiene, a high-quality dental bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer. Factors like consistent brushing and flossing, avoiding hard foods, and regular dental check-ups can significantly extend its lifespan.
I will use a local anesthetic to completely numb the teeth and surrounding area, so you should not feel any pain during the bridge preparation or placement. You might feel some pressure, but no discomfort. For anxious patients, we also offer sedation options.
Caring for a bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. You’ll need to brush twice a day and floss daily. Special floss threaders or interdental brushes can help you clean underneath the pontic (the artificial tooth) to prevent plaque buildup. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial.
Absolutely! My goal is for your new bridge to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. We carefully select the shade and shape to match your existing smile, making the bridge virtually undetectable.
After the permanent bridge is cemented, you can typically eat most foods. However, it’s wise to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods, especially initially, to ensure the cement sets fully and to protect the bridge from undue stress.
Yes, the most common alternative is a dental implant, which replaces the tooth root and provides exceptional stability without affecting adjacent teeth. Removable partial dentures are another option, though they are not fixed in place. We’ll discuss all suitable options during your consultation.
While the artificial tooth (pontic) itself cannot get a cavity, the natural abutment teeth that support the bridge can still be susceptible to decay, especially at the margin where the crown meets the tooth. This is why meticulous oral hygiene and regular check-ups are vital.
Initially, you might notice a slight difference in your speech, especially if the missing teeth affected your pronunciation. However, your mouth will quickly adjust, and most patients find their speech returns to normal, often improved, once the bridge is in place.
Most dental insurance plans provide some level of coverage for dental bridges, as they are considered a restorative (necessary for health and function) procedure. My team will help you understand your specific benefits and provide an estimate of costs.
The longevity of a bridge relies on the health of the supporting abutment teeth. If these teeth develop decay or problems, the bridge may need to be removed and replaced, or alternative solutions might be necessary. This underscores the importance of excellent oral hygiene for your natural teeth.