Tooth gone? A dental bridge could help!
Losing a tooth might seem like no biggie, especially if it’s tucked away where no one can see it. But even a single missing tooth can set off a chain reaction that affects more than just your smile. Teeth begin to shift, your bite changes, jawbone shrinkage can alter your facial shape, and before you know it, your oral health and confidence take a hit.
The good news? Modern dentistry offers reliable, natural-looking solutions to restore both function and appearance. A dental bridge is one of the most trusted options to seamlessly fill the gap and protect your long-term oral health.
If you’re wondering how it works, what to expect, and whether it’s the right choice for you, keep reading—you might discover it’s the solution your smile has been waiting for.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a custom-made, fixed dental restoration designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth), known as pontics, to the adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants, known as abutments.
The bridge restores the appearance and function of your smile, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently without the worry of visible gaps or shifting teeth. Modern dental bridges are crafted from materials like porcelain, lithium disilicate, or zirconia for a natural look that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
Types of dental bridges
Different types of dental bridges are available depending on your specific dental needs:
Traditional dental bridge
The most common type, featuring pontics anchored by crowns on natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
Ideal for: Patients with healthy adjacent teeth strong enough to support crowns.
Cantilever bridge
Similar to a traditional bridge but supported by a crown on only one side of the missing tooth.
Ideal for: Situations where only one adjacent tooth is available, though it carries a higher risk of complications due to uneven pressure.
Maryland bridge (resin-bonded bridge)
Uses metal or porcelain “wings” bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth instead of crowns.
Ideal for: Replacing missing front teeth where biting forces are lighter.
Implant-supported bridge
Relies on dental implants instead of natural teeth for support, offering superior stability and preserving jawbone health.
Ideal for: Patients missing multiple teeth or lacking strong adjacent natural teeth.
How does a dental bridge work?
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves several key steps:
1. Initial consultation and assessment
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine your mouth, assess the health of your teeth and gums, and determine whether a dental bridge is the most suitable solution for you. Digital X-rays may be taken to check the condition of the surrounding teeth and bone structure.
2. Preparing the abutment teeth
If a bridge is recommended, the teeth on either side of the gap—known as abutment teeth—will be reshaped. A thin layer of enamel is removed to create enough space for dental crowns, which will serve as anchors for the bridge.
3. Taking digital impressions
Your dentist will use intraoral digital scanning technology to capture precise 3D images of your prepared teeth and the surrounding area. These detailed scans ensure your bridge will fit comfortably, function properly, and match the natural colour and shape of your teeth.
4. Temporary bridge placement
While your custom bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge may be placed over the prepared teeth. This protects your exposed teeth, maintains the gap’s appearance, and allows you to eat and speak comfortably in the meantime.
5. Fitting the permanent bridge
Once your permanent bridge is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary restoration and fit the final bridge. Adjustments are made to ensure a secure, comfortable bite and a natural look. Once confirmed, the bridge is permanently cemented into place, restoring your smile’s appearance and function.
Why is it important to replace missing teeth?
Replacing a missing tooth is about far more than simply restoring your smile—it’s a crucial step in protecting your long-term oral health and overall wellbeing. Leaving a gap untreated can lead to a range of dental and health issues over time. Here’s what you need to be aware of:
- Teeth can shift out of alignment
When a tooth is missing, the neighbouring teeth naturally begin to drift into the empty space. This movement can cause misalignment, bite issues, and even create new gaps between your remaining teeth, which may require future orthodontic treatment to correct.
- Jawbone deterioration
Your jawbone relies on regular stimulation from chewing to maintain its strength and density. Without a tooth to provide this stimulation, the bone beneath the gap can begin to shrink and weaken—a process known as bone resorption. Over time, this can change the shape of your face, leading to a sunken or aged appearance.
- Difficulty with chewing and speaking
Missing teeth can make it harder to enjoy certain foods, leading to a limited diet and potential nutritional deficiencies. Gaps can also affect how clearly you speak, particularly if the missing tooth is towards the front of your mouth.
- Increased wear on remaining teeth
With fewer teeth to share the workload, the remaining teeth are forced to bear more pressure during chewing. This can lead to excessive wear, cracks, or damage over time, potentially compromising their long-term health.
- Higher risk of gum disease and decay
Empty spaces can easily trap food particles and bacteria, making it harder to maintain good oral hygiene. This increases the risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, and decay affecting the neighbouring teeth.
Benefits of dental bridges
Choosing a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth offers more than just a cosmetic fix—it plays a key role in restoring your oral health, comfort, and confidence. Here’s how a dental bridge can make a positive difference:
Restore the appearance of your smile: A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, restoring the natural look of your smile. Modern bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, enhancing both your appearance and self-confidence.
Improves chewing and speaking: Missing teeth can make everyday activities like eating and speaking feel awkward or uncomfortable. A dental bridge helps restore normal function, allowing you to chew your food properly and speak clearly without hesitation.
Prevents teeth from shifting: Gaps in your smile can cause surrounding teeth to drift out of place over time, leading to misalignment and bite problems. A bridge helps keep your remaining teeth in their proper positions, preserving your natural bite and alignment.
Quicker than implants: Compared to dental implants, bridges offer a quicker solution. The treatment typically requires fewer appointments and avoids surgical procedures, making it a more straightforward option for many patients.
Supports facial structure: Tooth loss can lead to bone deterioration, which may cause facial features to appear sunken or aged. A bridge helps maintain the shape and structure of your face by providing support to your cheeks and lips.
Risks and considerations of dental bridges
While dental bridges are a proven and effective solution for restoring missing teeth, they may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some important factors to consider before deciding if this treatment is right for you:
Impact on natural teeth: To place a traditional dental bridge, the adjacent teeth need to be reshaped and fitted with crowns to support the bridge. This process is irreversible and may weaken these teeth over time, especially if they were previously healthy and free from large restorations.
Potential for decay: Because bridges cover the natural teeth, areas around the crowns can be more difficult to clean thoroughly. If proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained, plaque and bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease affecting the supporting teeth.
Lifespan: Dental bridges are durable but not permanent. On average, they may need to be replaced after 5 to 7 years due to wear, changes in the supporting teeth, or oral health issues. With excellent care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, some bridges can last 10 years or longer.
Not always ideal: If the teeth adjacent to the gap are already compromised by decay, fractures, or large fillings, they may not provide a stable foundation for a traditional bridge. In such cases, dental implants are often recommended. Implants offer the advantage of replacing teeth without affecting healthy neighbouring teeth and help preserve jawbone health by stimulating the bone where the tooth is missing.
How to keep your natural teeth
While dental bridges are an excellent solution, prevention remains the best approach. Keeping your natural teeth healthy for life is the ultimate goal.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup between teeth
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended
Attend regular dental visits
- Routine check-ups allow early detection of decay, gum disease, and other issues that can lead to tooth loss.
- Get professional dental cleanings regularly to remove stubborn plaque and tartar.
Adopt Healthy Habits
- Limit sugary foods and acidic beverages
- Quit smoking, which is linked to gum disease and tooth loss
- Protect teeth from trauma with a mouthguard during sports or a night guard if you grind your teeth
A healthy mouth means a lasting smile
A dental bridge is a reliable, time-tested way to restore your smile and protect your oral health after losing a tooth. But like any dental work, its success—and how long it lasts—comes down to how well you care for it.
Brush and floss daily, keep up with your regular dental visits, and follow your dentist’s care advice. With the right maintenance, your bridge won’t just help you chew and speak with confidence—it’ll keep your smile strong for years to come.
Good care today means fewer problems tomorrow.
