Bridge

If you lose a permanent tooth because of trauma or extraction, a bridge can restore your smile and prevent additional problems. At Newport Dental in Bellevue, Washington, general and family dentists Sarah Park, DDS, David Rubinov, DDS, and the team use dental bridges to replace missing teeth and encourage optimal oral health. Call the office today to see if you’re a candidate for a dental bridge or book online.

What is a bridge?

A bridge is a dental restoration that fills a gap in your smile where a tooth used to be. Filling the empty socket with a false tooth restores your smile to its near–original condition and prevents your other teeth from changing position. 

Are there different types of dental bridges?

At Newport Dental, the team offers several types of dental bridges, including:

Traditional bridges

A traditional bridge has a false tooth and two crowns. The tooth fills the gap in your smile, and the crowns hold it in place. Traditional bridges typically replace missing molars and premolars (the teeth near the back of your mouth).

Cantilever bridges

A cantilever bridge has a false tooth and one crown. The team at Newport Dental might recommend a cantilever bridge if you only have one healthy permanent tooth next to the gap in your smile.

Maryland bridges

Maryland bridges replace missing front teeth. A Maryland bridge has an artificial tooth and a metal frame. Your dentist bonds the frame to the backs of the two teeth on either side of the gap.

Implant-supported bridges

An implant-supported bridge connects to a dental implant –– a titanium post inserted into your empty tooth socket. The post fuses with your bone, providing a foundation for a fixed bridge.

What is the process for getting a bridge?

At Newport Dental, getting a bridge takes two visits several weeks apart.

First, your dentist prepares your abutment teeth. They administer a local anesthetic and remove a thin layer of enamel from the teeth on either side of the gap in your smile.

Next, your provider takes impressions or digital scans of your teeth. A dental lab then uses your molds or scans to create a custom bridge that fits perfectly. Your Newport Dental provider places a temporary bridge in the meantime until the final restoration is ready.

When the lab finishes your bridge a week or two later, you return to Newport Dental. Your provider replaces the temporary bridge with the permanent one, checks your bite, and provides care instructions.

How long do bridges last?

Bridges last 10-12 years on average* but may last even longer with good oral hygiene. The team at Newport Dental recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for preventive care.

Call Newport Dental today to request a bridge consultation or book online.