How Dental Bridges Work: Your Guide to Restoring Your Smile
When you’re missing teeth, everyday things like eating, speaking, or even smiling can feel a little more complicated. Dental bridges are one of the most common restorative dentistry options for replacing one or more missing teeth, helping restore both your smile and your chewing function.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of dental bridges: what they are, how they work, and what to expect from the dental bridge procedure.
Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or gathering information for a loved one, you’ll get a clear understanding of the types of dental bridges available and how they support overall oral health.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) to the neighboring teeth, often called abutment teeth, or to dental implants, depending on the type of bridge.
Most dental bridges consist of one or more false teeth, known as pontics, that are secured in place with dental crowns on either side. These crowns fit over your existing teeth or implants to provide a stable, long-term solution that looks and functions like natural teeth.
Dental bridges offer many benefits: they can restore your smile, improve chewing function, maintain the shape of your face, and prevent further oral health issues caused by tooth loss, such as shifting teeth or bone loss in the jaw.
While bridges fall under the umbrella of restorative dentistry, they also play a preventive role in supporting your overall oral health, especially when paired with good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist or dental hygienist.
Types of Dental Bridges
Not all dental bridges are the same. Depending on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), the condition of the adjacent teeth, and your overall oral health, your dentist may recommend one of several types of bridges.
Traditional Dental Bridge
This is the most common type. It consists of one or more artificial teeth held in place by dental crowns cemented onto the neighboring teeth. Traditional bridges are strong and durable, making them a popular option for replacing front teeth or those in the back of the mouth.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
Similar to a traditional bridge, a cantilever dental bridge is supported by a crown on only one side of the bridge.
These are typically used when there’s only one natural tooth available next to the gap. Cantilever bridges may not be ideal in areas that take a lot of bite force, but can be useful in specific situations.
Maryland Dental Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)
Also known as a Maryland bridge, this option uses a metal or porcelain framework, often with metal wings, bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth.
Because it doesn’t require crowns or much enamel removal, it’s considered a more conservative option. However, its clinical performance may be more limited depending on placement and bite.
Implant-Supported Bridge
For people missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge may be a recommended option. Instead of relying on existing teeth, this type of bridge is anchored to dental implants placed directly into the jawbone.
Implant-supported bridges are especially beneficial for maintaining jaw structure and reducing bone loss over time.
Popular Dental Bridge Materials and Brands
While dental bridges are custom-made for each patient, many dentists work with trusted brands and materials to ensure durability, comfort, and a natural look.
These brands often specialize in specific types of materials — from porcelain fused to metal to high-strength ceramics — that influence both appearance and performance.
Some of the most common materials used in fixed bridges include:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Offers strength from the metal base and a tooth-colored porcelain overlay for a more natural look.
- Zirconia: Known for its durability and biocompatibility, zirconia is a popular option for bridges that need to withstand strong bite pressure.
- Lithium disilicate (e.max): Often used for front teeth due to its excellent esthetics and light transmission.
While specific dental bridge brands aren’t typically marketed to patients like consumer products, your dentist may choose from well-regarded systems like:
- Nobel Biocare (often used for implant-supported bridges)
- 3M ESPE (known for restorative materials)
- Ivoclar Vivadent (makers of IPS e.max for ceramic restorations)
Ultimately, the right choice depends on the location of your missing teeth, your bite, your aesthetic preferences, and your dentist’s clinical judgment.
If you’re curious about the materials or labs your provider uses, it’s always okay to ask during your consultation.
Who’s a Good Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges can be a great option for many people dealing with tooth loss, especially if they’re missing one or a small number of teeth in a row. However, not every situation is the same, and the right choice depends on your individual dental needs.
You might be a good candidate for a dental bridge if:
- You have healthy adjacent teeth (or strong dental implants) to support the bridge.
- Your oral health is in good shape, with no untreated periodontal disease or significant tooth decay.
- You’re looking for a fixed solution. Unlike partial dentures, dental bridges are usually fixed bridges that stay in place.
- You want to restore your chewing function and maintain the appearance of your smile.
Dentists often recommend bridges when one or more teeth are missing, but the surrounding teeth are healthy enough to support the structure. If you have multiple missing teeth or more complex needs, other restorative options, such as implants or dentures, may be discussed.
As with any treatment, it’s important to consult your dentist regularly to determine the best option based on your dental history, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
What to Expect During the Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge typically involves more than one appointment, and the exact process can vary depending on the type of dental bridge you’re receiving. But in general, here’s what the dental bridge procedure looks like:
1. Initial Evaluation
Your dentist will first assess your teeth, gums, and bite. X-rays or scans may be taken to evaluate the health of your abutment teeth or determine if an implant-supported option is needed.
At this stage, your dentist will also talk through your goals and recommend the best bridge type for your situation.
2. Tooth Preparation
If you’re getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, the neighboring teeth will need to be reshaped to support the bridge.
These abutment teeth will be fitted with dental crowns, which serve as anchors for the artificial tooth (or teeth). You may receive a temporary bridge to wear while your permanent one is being made.
3. Custom Bridge Creation
Your dentist will take impressions or digital scans to ensure a proper fit.
The final bridge is typically crafted in a dental lab to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, often using materials like porcelain fused to metal or metal ceramic for strength and aesthetics.
4. Final Placement
Once your new bridge is ready, the temporary one is removed, and the permanent bridge is checked for comfort and fit. After any needed adjustments, it’s cemented or bonded in place. Some patients may feel mild sensitivity at first, but most find that dental bridges are not painful overall.
With proper care and follow-up visits, your bridge can last for many years and help prevent secondary caries or other oral health issues from developing in the gap left by missing teeth.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is designed to be a long-term solution, but it still requires regular care to keep your mouth healthy and the bridge functioning properly. With good oral hygiene and routine dental checkups, many bridges can last over a decade, some even longer.
Here’s how to care for your dental bridge day to day:
- Brush and floss carefully: Pay special attention to the abutment teeth supporting your bridge, as they’re still vulnerable to tooth decay and secondary caries. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend a special floss or threader to clean underneath the bridge.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine cleanings and exams help ensure your bridge maintains a proper fit and allow your provider to catch any oral health issues early.
- Watch what you chew: While most dental bridges are made to handle everyday use, chewing very hard or sticky foods can increase wear or loosen the cement over time.
- Avoid using your teeth as tools: Habits like nail-biting or opening packages with your teeth can damage both the bridge and your natural teeth.
With proper care, your bridge not only supports your chewing function but also helps maintain alignment, preventing further oral health issues that can arise from tooth loss.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
If you’re considering a dental bridge, you probably have a few questions — and you’re not alone. Below are some of the most common concerns people have when exploring bridge options, from how they feel to how they compare to other treatments.
These answers can help you prepare for a conversation with your dentist and make the right decision for your oral health.
Do dental bridges look like natural teeth?
Yes, when made with high-quality materials like porcelain fused to metal or zirconia, bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. The goal is always a natural-looking smile that feels comfortable and functional in your day-to-day life.
Can I floss with a dental bridge?
Yes, but it’s a bit different from flossing natural teeth. You’ll likely need a floss threader or a small interdental brush to clean under the false teeth. Your dental hygienist can show you how to care for your bridge effectively to avoid secondary caries or gum issues.
Are there different options for front teeth vs. back teeth?
Yes. For front teeth, your dentist may recommend a Maryland dental bridge or an aesthetic material like lithium disilicate, especially when appearance is a priority. For molars or areas that take more bite force, stronger materials or even implant-supported bridges may be preferred.
What happens if my bridge feels loose or uncomfortable?
Bridges should feel stable and secure. If your new bridge feels off or causes discomfort, it’s important to see your dentist. Sometimes adjustments are needed to achieve a proper fit, especially shortly after placement.
Can a dental bridge be replaced?
Yes. Like any dental restoration, bridges may wear down or need replacement over time. Whether due to tooth decay, wear and tear, or changes in your bite, your dentist can help you determine when it’s time to consider a replacement bridge.
What Happens Next? Your Dental Bridge Journey
Choosing to replace missing teeth is a big decision, and for many people, dental bridges offer a reliable, long-lasting solution. With several types of bridges available, including traditional bridges, Maryland dental bridges, and implant-supported bridges, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
The right option depends on your dental needs, the condition of your adjacent teeth, and your long-term oral health goals.
If you’re thinking about getting a bridge, the best next step is to talk to your dentist. They can assess your situation, walk you through your choices, and help you understand what to expect from the dental bridge procedure.
Not sure where to start? You can explore Sunbit’s directory of local dental providers to find a practice near you.
With the right care and guidance, a well-made bridge can restore not just your smile but also your chewing function, confidence, and overall oral health for years to come.
