7034 Hospital Drive, Dublin, OH 43016
Close the Gap a Missing Tooth Leaves Behind
A missing tooth affects more than just the appearance of your smile. It can shift the alignment of surrounding teeth, make chewing more difficult and even change the shape of your face over time as surrounding bone and tissue adjust to the gap. A dental bridge offers a reliable way to fill that space, restoring both the function and appearance of your smile in a single, custom-fit restoration.
A bridge works exactly as its name suggests, spanning the gap left by one or more missing teeth using the neighboring teeth, or dental implants, as support. Once in place, a bridge allows you to bite, chew and speak naturally again, while also preventing the surrounding teeth from gradually shifting into the empty space, a common issue when missing teeth are left untreated.
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How a Dental Bridge Restores Your Smile
A dental bridge is made up of two main parts: the crowns that anchor the bridge in place, and the artificial tooth, or teeth, that fill the gap between them. The anchoring crowns are placed over the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth, or in some cases over dental implants, providing a strong, stable foundation for the bridge as a whole.
Because the bridge is custom fabricated to match the shape, size and shade of your surrounding teeth, it blends in naturally rather than standing out. Beyond the cosmetic benefit, a properly fitted bridge also helps preserve the structure of your bite, distributing chewing pressure evenly and preventing the kind of strain that can develop on remaining teeth when a gap is left unaddressed for too long.
Benefits of Choosing a Dental Bridge
- Restores full chewing function – A bridge allows you to bite and chew normally again, without the limitations a missing tooth can create.
- Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting – Filling the gap keeps neighboring teeth from gradually drifting out of position.
- Maintains facial structure – Bridges help prevent the changes in facial appearance that can occur when missing teeth go untreated for extended periods.
- Natural, custom-matched appearance – Each bridge is designed to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, blending seamlessly into your smile.
- Long-term durability – With proper care, a well-fitted bridge can last many years before needing replacement.
- Improved speech – Missing teeth, particularly toward the front of the mouth, can affect speech clarity, which a bridge helps restore.
The Dental Bridge Process, Step by Step
Getting a dental bridge typically takes place over two appointments, allowing time for your custom bridge to be fabricated to an exact fit.
Consultation and Examination
Preparation
Digital Impressions
Temporary Bridge
Fitting
Who Is a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge may be the right solution if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth and want a fixed, non-removable solution
- Have healthy teeth on either side of the gap that can support crowns
- Have sufficient bone density and gum health to support implants, if implant-supported bridges are being considered
- Want to restore your bite and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting
- Prefer a permanent option over a removable partial denture
During your consultation, Dr. Dennison will evaluate your specific situation, including the condition of your surrounding teeth and jawbone, to determine whether a traditional bridge, an implant-supported bridge or an alternative restoration is the best fit for your needs.
Ready to Fill the Gap in Your Smile?
A missing tooth doesn't have to affect your bite, your confidence or the health of your surrounding teeth. Let us help you find the right solution to restore your smile.
Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation