Dental bridges are a procedure used to fill the gaps created by one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth. They’re typically made from porcelain or ceramic materials and can be designed to be fixed or removable according to patient need. With dental bridge treatment, you can restore both the appearance and function of your mouth—and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty space.
But is this life-changing procedure suitable for everyone? And what are the typical costs? In this comprehensive guide, we cover all the key factors that influence dental bridge treatment, providing patients and their families with everything they need to know.
Why is a dental bridge needed?
Many visits to the dentist end with a recommendation for a bridge—and for good reason. Bridges address both esthetic and functional issues. If you’ve ever been embarrassed by a gap in your smile, a bridge is often the ideal solution: it restores a natural, confident appearance while closing the space left by missing teeth.
Did you know bridges also help you chew and speak properly? When a gap goes untreated, bacteria can accumulate, irritating gums and throwing off bite alignment. A bridge re-establishes proper occlusion, protects against periodontal disease, and preserves the health of surrounding teeth.
What types of dental bridges are there?
There are two main categories:
- Traditional bridges – Created by placing crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, with pontics (false teeth) suspended between them.
- Implant-supported bridges – Involve placing one or more dental implants in the jawbone to support the bridge without relying on neighboring teeth.
Two additional styles are:
- Cantilever bridges – Used when there’s an adjacent tooth on only one side of the gap.
- Maryland bridges – Often used in the front of the mouth; the pontic is bonded to metal or porcelain “wings” that attach to the back of adjacent teeth.
Who is a candidate for bridge treatment?
Almost anyone missing one or more teeth may be eligible for a bridge, but the final decision depends on individual oral health. Your dentist will evaluate your remaining teeth, gum health, and bone structure before recommending treatment.
You may qualify if you have:
- Severe tooth fracture beyond what a filling can repair
- Extensive decay that cannot be restored with a simple filling
- One or more missing teeth causing esthetic or functional problems
Also see: What Is a Dental Prosthesis and How Is It Made?
Post-bridge care: What to keep in mind
A bridge can restore your smile and chewing ability—but it still needs proper care:
- Brush twice daily around and under the bridge.
- Use a soft-bristled brush suitable for your bridge.
- Floss or use an interdental cleaner daily to remove plaque.
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to keep gums healthy.
How is bridge treatment performed?
Bridge placement requires multiple visits:
- First visit: – Prepares the abutment teeth (shaping them to receive crowns) and takes impressions to send to the lab. – Places a temporary bridge until your custom bridge is ready.
- Second visit: – Removes the temporary bridge and fits the permanent one, checking bite and appearance.
All work is done under local anesthesia, so you’ll feel no pain during the procedure.
Dental bridge costs (2025)
Bridge prices vary based on material, type of bridge, number of teeth replaced, and geographic location. University clinics may subsidize part of the cost, while private practices often offer flexible payment plans.
FAQs about dental bridges
What does “dental bridge” mean? A bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis that replaces missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth or implants.
How does a bridge work? Porcelain or ceramic pontics fill the gap, supported by crowns on neighboring teeth or by implants.
How long does a bridge last? On average, 5–15 years with proper care.
Is placing a bridge painful? No—local anesthesia makes the procedure comfortable.
Bridge vs. implant: which is better? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your oral health and needs.
Can you chew gum with a bridge? Yes—bridges are designed to handle normal chewing, including gum.
Is a bridge permanent? Yes, a fixed bridge is designed to be a long-term solution.
What happens if you skip a bridge? Untreated gaps can lead to drifting teeth, bite problems, and more complex (and costly) treatments down the line.
