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Restorative care

Dental bridges in Herriman

A missing tooth can make chewing harder and leave a gap you notice in photos. A bridge fills that space with a fixed tooth that stays in your mouth.

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What is a dental bridge?

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth in a row. A false tooth sits in the gap and is joined to crowns that fit over the teeth on each side. The bridge is cemented in place, so you do not take it out at night.

  • Fills a gap from one to a few missing teeth
  • Can be held by natural teeth or by implants
  • Helps keep nearby teeth from shifting

Who a bridge can help

A bridge may be a good fit if you are missing one tooth, or a few in a row, and want something fixed rather than removable. It can help with:

  • Chewing on the side with the gap
  • Speech that changed after losing a tooth
  • Teeth that are starting to tip or drift into the open space
  • How your smile looks

A traditional bridge needs healthy teeth on both sides of the gap, since they will hold crowns. If those teeth are already filled or crowned, a bridge can protect them too. If they are healthy and untouched, or the gap is long, your dentist may talk with you about dental implants, which do not rely on the nearby teeth. Healthy gums and bone are also important, so your dentist checks both first.

What to expect

  1. Exam. Your dentist checks the gap, the teeth beside it and your gums, and takes x-rays.
  2. Preparing the anchor teeth. After numbing, your dentist shapes the teeth on each side so crowns can fit over them.
  3. Impression and temporary. Your dentist records your teeth and bite. You wear a temporary bridge while the final one is made.
  4. Fitting. Your dentist checks the fit, color and bite, then cements the bridge in place.

Types of bridges

A traditional bridge uses crowns on natural teeth. An implant-supported bridge uses dental implants as anchors, which can work well when several teeth are missing. Your dentist will explain which type suits your mouth.

Caring for your bridge

Food and plaque can collect under the false tooth, so cleaning there matters most. Use a floss threader, a water flosser or small brushes made for bridges once a day. Brush twice a day and keep up with your checkups so your dentist can check the anchor teeth and gums.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about dental bridges

How long does a bridge last?
Many bridges last 10 years or more. The health of the anchor teeth and gums matters most, so daily cleaning under the bridge helps it last.
Can I take my bridge out?
No. A bridge is cemented to your teeth or implants. Only your dentist can remove it. If you want something you can take out, ask about a partial denture.
Are there downsides to a bridge?
The teeth next to the gap need to be shaped for crowns. If plaque builds up under the bridge, those teeth can get cavities or gum problems. Good daily cleaning lowers that risk.
Is a bridge or an implant better for me?
It depends on your teeth, gums, bone and goals. Bridges are often quicker. Implants leave nearby teeth untouched. Your dentist will walk through both with you.
How much does a bridge cost?
Cost depends on how many teeth are replaced and the materials used. Many insurance plans pay part of it. We share an estimate before you decide.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Dental Crowns

A custom cap that covers a weak or broken tooth so you can bite and chew normally.

About dental crowns

Dentures

Custom full and partial dentures that replace missing teeth and help you chew and smile.

About dentures

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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