How long do dental bridges last?

With consistent home care and regular dental visits, bridges can last many years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, and the health of the supporting teeth or implants.

Can a bridge be repaired or replaced?

If a bridge becomes damaged or shows signs of wear, it may be repaired in some cases. If not, it can be removed and replaced with a new restoration.

How do I clean around a bridge?

Daily brushing and flossing are essential. Cleaning underneath the artificial tooth using floss threaders or small interproximal brushes helps protect the supporting teeth and gums.

Will a bridge look natural?

Yes. Bridges are custom-designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.

Does insurance typically cover bridges?

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for bridges when they are medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan, and we review benefits before treatment so you understand your options.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by connecting artificial teeth to neighboring teeth or dental implants for support.

How many teeth can a bridge replace?

Most bridges replace one to three missing teeth in a row. In certain cases, a bridge can replace up to five teeth, provided there is adequate support.

How long does it take to complete a bridge?

Traditional bridges are typically completed in two visits. The first appointment prepares the supporting teeth and places a temporary restoration. The second visit seats the final bridge. Implant-supported bridges require additional time if implants must heal before restoration.

Is getting a bridge painful?

No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Mild sensitivity afterward is normal and usually temporary.

How is a bridge different from a dental implant?

A traditional bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support. A dental implant replaces the missing tooth root and supports a crown or bridge independently. The best option depends on the condition of adjacent teeth and overall oral health. Dental implants, and associated implant supported bridges, are more costly.

Dental Bridges

Replacing Missing Teeth with Stability and Balance

Replacing Multiple Teeth

When one or more teeth are missing in the same area of the mouth, especially when they are adjacent, the space can affect how the surrounding teeth function together. Neighboring teeth may drift, opposing teeth may shift, and bite balance can change over time.

A dental bridge is designed to replace one or more missing teeth in a row by anchoring artificial teeth to neighboring teeth or dental implants. This creates a stable, fixed restoration that restores chewing function and maintains alignment.

At Galligan Family Dentistry, bridges are carefully planned to fit comfortably within your bite while supporting long-term oral health.

When a Dental Bridge Is the Right Solution

A bridge is typically recommended when teeth are missing next to one another and there are stable teeth or implants available to provide support.

Unlike removable options, a bridge remains fixed in place. It restores continuity within the arch by connecting the replacement tooth or teeth to a solid anchor. This approach is often selected when patients prefer a non-removable solution and when surrounding teeth are strong enough to support it.

Bridges are especially appropriate when restoring teeth in areas where maintaining chewing balance and bite stability is important.

The Bridge Options We Provide

Not all bridges are designed the same way. The appropriate type depends on the number of missing teeth, their location, and the condition of the surrounding teeth and bone.

Traditional Fixed Bridge

The most common bridge, it replaces up to four missing teeth with artificial teeth called pontics, supported by crowns on the adjacent teeth. The supporting (abutment) teeth are shaped to receive crowns, forming a single restoration to span the gap.

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge uses a framework bonded to the back surfaces of neighboring teeth instead of full crowns. Because it requires minimal alteration of adjacent teeth, it is typically used for front teeth where biting forces are lighter.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is supported by a crown on only one neighboring tooth. It may be considered when only one adjacent tooth is available. Due to force distribution, it is used selectively and most often in areas with lower chewing pressure.

Implant-Supported Bridge

An implant-supported bridge attaches to dental implants placed by a specialist rather than relying on natural teeth for support. This option is often considered when multiple teeth are missing in a row and additional stability is desired.

Removable Bridge

In some situations, a removable bridge may be recommended. This option is a type of partial denture and can be taken out for cleaning. More information about this option is available on our dentures page.

Choosing the Right Bridge Solution

The type of bridge recommended depends on structural support, bite forces, and long-term durability.

When strong teeth are present on both sides of the gap, a traditional bridge may provide predictable support. If only one adjacent tooth is available, a cantilever design may be considered. In areas where preserving neighboring teeth is a priority, a Maryland bridge may be appropriate. When greater stability is needed, an implant-supported bridge may offer additional support.

The decision is based on function, support, and long-term reliability.

What to Expect During Treatment

Traditional and cantilever bridges are typically completed over two visits. At the first appointment, the supporting teeth are prepared to allow placement of crowns if required. Impressions are taken so the custom bridge can be fabricated, and a temporary bridge is placed to protect the area.

At the second visit, the final bridge is evaluated for fit and bite alignment before being securely bonded or cemented into place. Implant-supported bridges involve coordination with a specialist for implant placement before the restorative phase begins.

Aftercare and Longevity

Caring for a bridge is similar to caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing are essential, including cleaning beneath the replacement tooth to maintain healthy gum tissue.

Regular exams allow us to monitor the bridge and its supporting teeth or implants to ensure continued stability.

With proper care, bridges can provide many years of reliable function. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, and overall dental health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

If you have additional questions about dental bridges or would like to schedule an evaluation, our team is here to help. Replacing missing teeth promptly helps maintain alignment, chewing function, and long-term oral health.

A Structured Approach to Tooth Replacement

Dental bridges remain a dependable way to restore missing teeth when a fixed solution is desired. Through careful evaluation and precise fabrication, we aim to provide restorations that integrate comfortably into your bite and support long-term function.

If you are missing one or more adjacent teeth, an evaluation allows us to determine whether a bridge is the right solution for your situation.

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Location

Galligan Family Dentistry
11420 Falls of Neuse Rd
Raleigh, NC 27614

Contact

Phone: (919) 977-1870
Fax: (919) 977-1872
Email: info@galliganfamilydentistry.com

Phone: (919) 977-1870
Fax: (919) 977-1872
Email: Click To Email

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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