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Missing one or more teeth is very common, and many adults experience gaps in their smile at some point in their lives.
At Lane Family Dentistry, we often recommend dental bridges as a trusted way to replace missing teeth, restore chewing function, and improve confidence. A dental bridge is a custom restoration that fills the space where one or more teeth are missing by using an artificial tooth, called a pontic, supported by teeth or implants on either side of the gap.
These supporting teeth or implants, known as abutments, are typically restored with crowns that securely anchor the bridge in place. For patients with a single missing tooth, the neighboring teeth are prepared for crowns, and a natural-looking pontic is attached between them to “bridge” the space.
When several adjacent teeth are missing, we may recommend an implant-supported bridge, which uses dental implants instead of natural teeth as the foundation for even greater stability and long-term support. Whether you are missing one tooth or several in a row, our team in Vilonia can design a personalized bridge to restore your smile and help keep your remaining teeth from shifting out of place over time.
There are four main types of dental bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is the most common solution. The healthy teeth on each side of the gap are fitted with crowns, and one or more pontics (replacement teeth) are attached between them to create a strong, secure “bridge” over the missing tooth area.
Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge works similarly but is supported by a tooth on only one side of the space. Because this design can place extra pressure on the single supporting tooth, it is usually reserved for carefully selected cases where biting forces are lower.
Implant Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge uses one or more dental implants instead of natural teeth to support the restoration. This option is especially beneficial when several adjacent teeth are missing, offering excellent stability, long-term durability, and a natural feel when you chew and speak.
Maryland Bridge
A Maryland bridge relies on a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of the neighboring teeth. While it is generally not as strong under heavy biting forces as a traditional bridge, it preserves more natural tooth structure because it does not require full crowns on the supporting teeth.
Schedule a visit with our team to discover personalized solutions designed to restore your smile and confidence.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions but prefer not to call? Browse our FAQs for quick answers and a better understanding of our dental office and services.
A bridge is placed as an anchor for artificial teeth to adjacent crowns. A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape and strength. Both are forms of restorative dentistry.
Both procedures serve several advantages, such as bite restoration, protection for compromised teeth, and support for jaw alignment and chewing function. They’re durable and can last over a decade with proper care.
Crowns require reshaping the natural teeth, and bridges could alter the health of adjacent teeth in exchange for its support. Bridges don’t prevent bone loss under the missing tooth like implants can, and if a supporting tooth fails, the entire bridge may need replacing.
Maintaining your oral hygiene, avoiding chewing hard objects, and regular check-ups with your dentist can ensure your restorations last for years.