Dental bridges are a reliable option for replacing one or more missing teeth and restoring the appearance and function of your smile. At Maitland Square Dentistry, Dr. David Hazan provides dental bridges in Maitland, Florida, to help patients improve chewing, maintain proper tooth alignment and feel more confident in their smiles.
A dental bridge fills the space left by missing teeth with one or more artificial teeth supported by neighboring teeth or restorations. By replacing the missing teeth, a bridge can help restore everyday function while also reducing the risk of nearby teeth shifting into the open space.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. The replacement tooth, or teeth, fills the open space while surrounding teeth provide support for the restoration.
Traditional dental bridges commonly use crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap to hold the replacement tooth securely in position. Depending on your needs, other restorative options may also be considered.
Dental bridges may help:
- Replace one or more missing teeth
- Restore chewing function
- Improve the appearance of your smile
- Help maintain the position of surrounding teeth
- Support proper bite function
- Provide a fixed alternative to a removable tooth replacement
Our dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums and bite to determine whether a dental bridge is appropriate for your needs.
Experienced Restorative Dental Care
Dr. Hazan has nearly three decades of experience providing restorative dentistry and has completed more than 2,500 dental bridge cases throughout his career. His experience also includes more than 5,000 dental crowns, more than 5,000 implant restorations and thousands of other complex restorative procedures.
This broad clinical experience allows Dr. Hazan to evaluate the missing tooth as part of your overall oral health rather than focusing only on the open space. He can also discuss other appropriate tooth replacement options when a bridge is not the best fit for your situation.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
The process begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Hazan. During this visit, your oral health will be evaluated to determine whether a dental bridge is an appropriate treatment option. For a traditional bridge, the teeth next to the missing tooth are prepared so they can support crowns that anchor the restoration. A small amount of tooth structure is removed to create space for these crowns.
Next, precise digital impressions are taken to help create a bridge that fits comfortably and works with your bite. A temporary restoration may be used while your final bridge is being completed.
Once the permanent bridge is ready, Dr. Hazan will carefully evaluate its fit, appearance and bite before securing it in place.
Dental Bridges for Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can affect more than the appearance of your smile. An open space may make chewing more difficult and can allow surrounding teeth to gradually shift position. Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge can restore continuity to the dental arch and help support more balanced function. The artificial tooth is designed to blend with the surrounding teeth while filling the space left by the missing tooth.
The number of teeth being replaced, the condition of the supporting teeth and your overall oral health will all influence whether a bridge is an appropriate treatment option.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Dental bridges and dental implants can both be used to replace missing teeth, but they use different methods of support.
A traditional bridge relies on neighboring teeth to support the replacement tooth. A dental implant is placed in the jawbone and supports a restoration independently of the adjacent teeth.
Neither option is automatically better for every patient. Dr. Hazan will consider the condition of your remaining teeth, bone structure, overall oral health and treatment goals before recommending an approach.
What If Several Teeth Are Missing or Damaged?
Patients with multiple missing, damaged or failing teeth may require a more comprehensive restorative plan. Depending on your needs, treatment could involve bridges, crowns, dental implants, dentures or a combination of procedures.
Dr. Hazan frequently treats patients with complex restorative needs, including those seeking second opinions or solutions for extensive or failed previous dental work. For more involved cases, full-mouth reconstruction may be considered to coordinate several treatments within one comprehensive plan.
Caring for a Dental Bridge
Good oral hygiene is important for protecting both your dental bridge and the natural teeth that support it. Brushing, cleaning around and underneath the bridge and maintaining regular dental visits can help keep the supporting teeth and gums healthy.
Our team will explain how to care for your specific restoration and may recommend tools or techniques that make cleaning beneath the bridge easier.
With appropriate care, a dental bridge can provide years of function, although the longevity of any restoration depends on factors such as oral hygiene, bite forces and the health of the supporting teeth.
Personalized Restorative Treatment
At Maitland Square Dentistry, restorative treatment begins with understanding your individual needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Dr. Hazan will explain what we find, review the available treatment options and help you understand the advantages and considerations of each approach. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about replacing missing teeth without pressure.
Schedule a Dental Bridge Consultation in Maitland, FL
If missing teeth are affecting your ability to chew, speak or smile comfortably, a dental bridge may help restore both function and appearance.
Contact our office at 407-677-5400 to schedule a consultation for dental bridges in Maitland, FL. You can also learn more about the dental care available at our office.
Dental Bridge FAQs
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. The replacement tooth or teeth fill the open space and are supported by surrounding teeth, crowns or another type of dental restoration.
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
A dental bridge can replace one or more missing teeth, depending on the location of the gap, the health of the supporting teeth and other factors. Our dentist will evaluate your mouth to determine whether a bridge is appropriate for the number of teeth you need to replace.
How long do dental bridges last?
The lifespan of a dental bridge varies based on oral hygiene, bite forces, the health of the supporting teeth and other individual factors. Good home care and regular dental visits can help protect the bridge and surrounding teeth.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The treatment area is numbed when teeth need to be prepared for a bridge. Our team will work to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure and explain what to expect before treatment begins.
What is the difference between a dental bridge and a dental implant?
A traditional dental bridge uses neighboring teeth to support the replacement tooth, while a dental implant is placed in the jawbone and supports a restoration independently. The right option depends on your oral health, anatomy and treatment goals.
Can I get a bridge if I have several missing teeth?
Possibly. The number and location of missing teeth and the condition of the remaining teeth will determine whether a bridge is appropriate. Patients with more extensive tooth loss may also need to consider dental implants, dentures or a broader restorative treatment plan.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Cleaning beneath and around a dental bridge is important for protecting the gums and supporting teeth. Our team can demonstrate appropriate flossing techniques and recommend cleaning tools based on the design of your restoration.
How do I know if a dental bridge is right for me?
The first step is a dental evaluation. Our dentist will examine the missing-tooth area, supporting teeth, gums and bite and discuss whether a dental bridge or another tooth replacement option may best fit your needs.