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What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by using the healthy teeth on either side of the gap for support. These supporting teeth are fitted with custom crowns, while the replacement tooth, called a pontic, fills the empty space to restore your smile.

Unlike a removable partial denture, a dental bridge stays securely in place, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. With proper care and regular dental visits, a bridge can provide many years of dependable function.

3D rendering of a dental bridge being placed over a missing tooth gap that is flanked by two shaved down teeth
Dental exam and consultation

When Is a Dental Bridge the Right Choice?

A missing tooth may not seem urgent, but leaving a gap in your smile can lead to changes in your bite and allow nearby teeth to shift out of position over time.

A dental bridge may be a good option if you want to:

  • Replace one or more missing teeth
  • Restore comfortable chewing and clearer speech
  • Prevent neighboring teeth from drifting
  • Maintain the natural shape of your smile and face
  • Improve your confidence when smiling
  • Replace a removable partial denture with a fixed solution

Every smile is different. During your consultation, we'll evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the treatment that best fits your needs.

What Happens During Treatment?

1

At your first appointment, we'll prepare the teeth that will support your bridge and take precise impressions for your custom restoration. You'll leave with a temporary bridge to protect your smile while your permanent one is being crafted.

2

When your bridge is ready, you'll return so Dr. Joe can check the fit, make any necessary refinements, and securely place it. We'll ensure your bite feels natural and answer any questions before you leave.

Should You Choose a Dental Bridge or a Dental Implant?

Many patients ask whether a dental bridge or dental implant is the better choice. The answer depends on your oral health, your goals, and the condition of the surrounding teeth.

A dental bridge may be the right solution if:

  • You want a fixed tooth replacement without surgery
  • The teeth beside the gap already need crowns
  • You're looking for a dependable way to restore your smile and bite

A dental implant may be recommended if you're replacing a single tooth and have enough healthy bone to support it. We'll explain the advantages of each option and help you make an informed decision based on what's best for your smile, not what's best for a treatment plan.

Meet The Dentist

Why Do Patients Choose Our Practice?

Replacing a missing tooth is an important decision, and we believe you should feel informed every step of the way. Dr. Joe takes the time to listen to your concerns, explain your options in clear language, and create a treatment plan that supports your long-term oral health.

Our goal isn't simply to replace a missing tooth. It's to restore your ability to eat comfortably, smile confidently, and enjoy everyday life without worrying about the gap in your smile. Whether you've recently lost a tooth or have been living with missing teeth for years, our team at Port Susan Dental Care is here to help you move forward with confidence.

Dr. Joe Eidsness, Port Susan Dental Care
Port Susan Dental Care front desk staff

Ready to Replace Your Missing Tooth?

You don't have to live with the challenges of missing teeth. A custom dental bridge can restore the function, appearance, and stability of your smile so you can get back to enjoying life's everyday moments.

If you're considering a dental bridge in Stanwood, WA, we'd love to help. Contact Port Susan Dental Care today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Joe and discover whether a dental bridge is the right solution for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. It restores your smile while helping you chew and speak comfortably.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, many dental bridges last 10 years or longer. Keeping your supporting teeth healthy is an important part of protecting your bridge.

No. We'll numb the area before preparing your teeth, so you should remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and usually fades within a few days.

Yes. Depending on the location of the gap and the health of the surrounding teeth, a dental bridge can replace one or several missing teeth.

Yes. Once your bridge is securely in place and you've adjusted to it, you'll be able to enjoy most of the foods you love again. We'll let you know if there are any foods to avoid while you're getting used to your new bridge.

Leaving a missing tooth untreated can allow nearby teeth to shift, affect your bite, make chewing more difficult, and increase the risk of additional dental problems over time. Replacing the tooth helps maintain the health and function of your smile.

You'll brush your bridge just as you would your natural teeth and use floss or specialized bridge cleaners to clean underneath it. Our team will show you the best techniques to keep your bridge and surrounding teeth healthy.

Both treatments are excellent options for replacing missing teeth. The right choice depends on your oral health, budget, and treatment goals. Dr. Joe will explain the benefits of each option and help you choose the one that's best for your smile.

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