Missing teeth affects more than just your smile. They impact how you chew, how you speak, and how your remaining teeth function. At Andover Family Dentistry in Andover, KS, Dr. Howell uses dental bridges to replace missing teeth with a fixed, natural-looking restoration that restores your smile’s function and appearance.
A bridge literally bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth, anchoring to the teeth on either side for a stable, permanent solution.
The Mechanics Of A Fixed Bridge
A dental bridge consists of one or more replacement teeth (called pontics) held in place by dental crowns on either side. The crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth adjacent to the gap, creating a fixed restoration that becomes a permanent part of your smile.
Bridges can replace a single tooth or multiple consecutive missing teeth. They’re custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
Once placed, a bridge functions just like your natural teeth. You can eat, speak, and smile normally without worrying about it shifting or coming loose.
Custom Bridge Types & Options
- Traditional bridges are the most common type. Crowns are placed on the teeth on both sides of the gap, with the replacement tooth or teeth suspended between them.
- Cantilever bridges are used when there’s only one natural tooth next to the gap. The bridge is supported on one side only.
- Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth rather than covering them with full crowns. This is a more conservative option but it isn’t suitable for all situations.
Dr. Howell will evaluate your teeth and recommend the type of bridge that will give you the best long-term results.
Protecting Your Bite & Alignment
When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth begin to shift into the empty space. Over time, this creates misalignment, bite problems, and uneven wear on your remaining teeth.
A bridge prevents this shift by filling the gap and maintaining proper spacing. It distributes chewing forces evenly, prevents opposing teeth from over-erupting, and keeps your bite balanced and functional.
By replacing missing teeth promptly, you prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, reduce your risk of additional tooth loss, and maintain your facial structure.
Your Path To A New Smile
Getting a bridge typically requires two visits. At the first appointment, Dr. Howell prepares the teeth on either side of the gap, takes impressions or digital scans, and places a temporary bridge. A dental lab creates your custom bridge over the next few weeks.
At the second visit, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is cemented in place. Dr. Howell checks the fit, color, and bite to ensure everything looks and feels perfect.
Maintenance For Lasting Results
Caring for a bridge is straightforward. You’ll brush and floss just like you do with natural teeth, with one addition: You’ll need to clean under the replacement tooth where it sits above the gum line.
To maintain your bridge:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean under the pontic
- Visit us regularly for checkups and cleanings
- Avoid chewing ice or hard candy
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
The teeth supporting your bridge need special attention. Keeping them healthy ensures your bridge stays strong and stable.
Is A Bridge Your Best Choice?
Bridges are ideal when the teeth next to the gap already have large fillings or need crowns, you want a faster solution than implants, bone grafting would be required for implants, or cost is a consideration.
Dr. Howell will evaluate your specific situation and help you understand whether a bridge or dental implant is the best option for your long-term oral health.
Restore Your Complete Smile
At Andover Family Dentistry, dental bridges offer a proven, reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. Dr. Howell combines precision craftsmanship with personalized care to create bridges that look natural, feel comfortable, and function beautifully for years.
Call our Andover, KS office or book online to schedule your bridge consultation. We’ll evaluate your teeth, discuss your options, and create a treatment plan to restore your smile.