Dental Bridges in Apopka, FL
Losing a tooth affects more than your smile. A gap can make chewing harder, change the way you speak, and allow neighboring teeth to drift out of position over time. A dental bridge is a proven way to fill that gap with a natural-looking replacement tooth. At Apopka Smiles, our dentist offers bridges as part of our restorative care services and will help you choose the best way to replace missing teeth.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A traditional bridge uses the teeth on either side of a gap to support a false tooth, called a pontic, in between. The neighboring teeth are prepared and covered with crowns, and the pontic is attached between them to form a single restoration that "bridges" the space.
Bridges are custom-made to match the size, shape and color of your natural teeth, so they blend into your smile.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
- Restores your smile by filling the gap left by a missing tooth
- Improves chewing and speaking
- Helps keep surrounding teeth in place so they don't shift into the empty space
- Fixed in place. Unlike a removable appliance, a bridge stays in your mouth
Who Is a Good Candidate?
A bridge may be a good option if you are missing one or more teeth in a row and the teeth on either side of the gap are healthy and strong enough to support crowns. Teeth are sometimes removed because of decay or damage so that a bridge can be placed. Our Extractions page explains more.
Our dentist will examine your teeth and gums and take digital X-rays to confirm whether a bridge is right for you.
Bridge vs. Implant vs. Denture
There's more than one way to replace a missing tooth, and our dentist will walk you through the options:
- Dental bridge. Uses adjacent teeth for support. It's a fixed option that doesn't require surgery.
- Dental implant. A titanium post placed in the jawbone that replaces only the missing tooth, without involving the neighboring teeth. Implants look and function like natural teeth and help decrease the possibility of bone loss and further tooth movement.
- Dentures. Full or partial dentures replace several or all teeth and are a good option when many teeth are missing. Ask about implant-supported dentures for extra stability.
What to Expect
Getting a bridge typically takes more than one visit. During the first visit, the supporting teeth are prepared and an impression is taken so a dental lab can create your custom bridge. You may wear a temporary bridge in the meantime. When your permanent bridge is ready, our dentist checks the fit and bite and then cements it in place.
Caring for Your Bridge
A bridge needs the same daily care as your natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. Cleaning under the pontic is important to keep the supporting teeth and gums healthy. Regular cleanings and exams help your bridge last.
Insurance and Payment
Apopka Smiles is in-network with most insurance PPO providers. Our financial staff will submit claims on your behalf, and we accept all major credit cards and CareCredit. Payment plans can be arranged when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a bridge different from an implant?
A bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap to support a false tooth. An implant replaces only the missing tooth with a post anchored in the jawbone, so it doesn't involve the neighboring teeth.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The teeth are numbed before they are prepared, so most patients feel little discomfort. Some sensitivity afterward is normal and usually temporary.
How many visits does a bridge take?
Usually at least two: one to prepare the teeth and take impressions, and one to place the finished bridge.
Can a bridge replace more than one tooth?
Yes, a bridge can replace one or more missing teeth in a row, depending on the health of the supporting teeth.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Brush and floss daily and clean carefully under the false tooth. Our hygienist can show you the best technique at your next visit.
Missing a tooth? Call Apopka Smiles at 407-788-6888 to explore your options.
