info@smilevegasdental.com
Don't Leave a Gap in Your Smile
When a tooth is lost, it’s crucial to take swift action to fill the gap to avoid the surrounding teeth’ gradual shifting that can lead to bite problems and oral health problems. At Smile Vegas Dental, we offer dental bridges as a fixed prosthetic device that can be utilized to fill gaps left by missing teeth. A dental bridge consists of an artificial tooth that is supported by two crowns that are fitted over the adjacent teeth. If you need to fill one or more gaps caused by missing teeth, a dental bridge may be a suitable option.
A dental bridge is a cost-effective and efficient solution for tooth replacement that uses healthy teeth for support while filling the gap left by missing teeth. Our restorative dentist permanently attaches the bridge, making it a more stable and reliable solution than removable replacements.
Schedule Your Visit
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally bridging the gap between two healthy teeth. The bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, held in place by dental crowns that are fitted over the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth, known as abutment teeth, anchor the bridge permanently in position.
Because the bridge is permanently cemented in place by our restorative dentist, it functions and feels much like your natural teeth. It does not come in and out like a removable partial denture, and it does not require the surgical placement of an implant. The result is a stable, comfortable, and natural-looking restoration that you can eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Improved chewing ability: A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, allowing you to chew and bite normally again.
- Maintaining Facial Shape: A dental bridge can support your facial structure and maintain your cheeks’ plumpness, retaining your natural facial structure.
- No Surgery Required: Unlike dental implants, dental bridges do not require oral surgery.
- Mimics natural teeth: Dental bridges can mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, restoring your smile’s appearance.
- Long-lasting: With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges are long-lasting solutions for missing teeth.
- Maintains facial structures: Dental bridges can preserve the natural shape of the mouth and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.
By opting for tooth-colored fillings at Smile Vegas Dental, you can enjoy stronger, healthier teeth, and a beautiful smile.
What to Expect During Your Bridge Appointment
Getting a dental bridge at Smile Vegas Dental is typically a two-appointment process:
- Preparation & Impressions Your dentist will begin by numbing the area with a local anesthetic. The abutment teeth on either side of the gap are carefully prepared, a small amount of enamel is removed to create room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Precise digital impressions are then taken and sent to our dental lab, where your custom bridge is fabricated to match your natural teeth exactly.
A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance while your permanent restoration is being made. - Permanent Placement When your permanent bridge is ready, typically one to two weeks later, you'll return for the final fitting. Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge, check the fit, color match, and bite of the permanent restoration, make any necessary adjustments, and permanently cement it in place.
Before you leave, we'll ensure your bite feels completely comfortable and natural. Most patients leave the second appointment with immediate, noticeable improvement in both function and appearance.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
With proper care, dental bridges typically last between 10 and 15 years — and many last considerably longer. The longevity of your bridge depends on:
- The health and stability of the abutment (supporting) teeth
- Your daily oral hygiene routine, especially flossing under and around the bridge using a floss threader or water flosser
- Whether you grind or clench your teeth, a custom nightguard is strongly recommended to protect the bridge from excessive force
- Attending regular cleanings and exams so our team can monitor the integrity of the bridge and the supporting teeth over time
At every routine visit, we assess the condition of your existing restorations and will alert you to any early signs of wear or issues with the supporting teeth before they compromise the bridge.
Ready to Fill the Gap & Restore Your Smile?
A missing tooth doesn't have to be a permanent part of your life. Our team is ready to walk you through your options and help you find the solution that works best for your smile, your schedule, and your budget.
Book Online