A missing tooth can change the way you chew, speak, and smile. Over time, neighboring teeth may drift, creating bite problems and uneven wear. A dental bridge is a time-tested solution that fills the gap with a natural-looking, fixed replacement—restoring form and function in as little as two visits.

What Is A Dental Bridge?

A traditional dental bridge replaces a missing tooth (or teeth) by anchoring an artificial tooth—called a pontic—to crowns on the neighboring teeth (abutments). Bridges can be:

• Traditional (most common): Pontic supported by crowns on both sides
• Cantilever: Pontic supported by a crown on one side (used sparingly)
• Maryland (resin-bonded): Pontic attached with hidden wings—minimal preparation, ideal for certain front-tooth cases
• Implant-Supported: Pontic(s) attached to dental implants rather than natural teeth

When Is A Bridge A Good Option?

• You’re missing one tooth or a short span of teeth
• Adjacent teeth need crowns anyway (large fillings or cracks)
• You prefer a fixed solution without surgery
• You want faster treatment than implants

If your neighbors are flawless and you prefer not to crown them, an implant may be the more conservative long-term choice. We’ll walk you through pros and cons.

The Bridge Procedure

1) Planning And Preparation

We examine supporting teeth and gums, take X-rays, and discuss designs. For traditional bridges, we prepare the abutment teeth similarly to crowns.

2) Impressions/Scan And Temporaries

We capture detailed records for the lab and place an esthetic temporary bridge to protect the teeth and maintain your smile and spacing.

3) Try-In And Fit

Your final bridge is checked for fit, bite, and color. We make micro-adjustments to ensure comfort and natural contours.

4) Final Cementation

Once you love the look and feel, we cement the bridge and provide care instructions.

Bridge Materials

• Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal: Durable, strong, and cosmetically pleasing for the back teeth
• All-Ceramic/Zirconia: Excellent strength with high aesthetics, ideal for visible areas
  We recommend materials based on location, bite, and cosmetic demands.

Caring For Your Bridge

• Brush 2x daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss underneath the pontic using a floss threader or water flosser to keep gums healthy
• Schedule routine cleanings and exams
• Consider a nightguard if you clench or grind

With proper care, bridges often last 10–15 years or more.

Bridge Vs. Implant Vs. Partial Denture

• Bridge: Fixed, fast solution; uses neighboring teeth for support
• Implant: Independent support, preserves adjacent enamel and jawbone; requires surgery and healing time
• Removable Partial: Budget-friendly, but less stable and doesn’t prevent bone loss the way implants do

Common Questions

Does it look natural?
Yes. We match shape and shade to surrounding teeth for a seamless result.

Will food get stuck underneath?
It can—like natural teeth. Using special floss and water flossers keeps the area clean.

Is it painful?
Most patients manage minor soreness with OTC pain relievers. The process is typically comfortable.

Cost And Coverage

Dental insurance often contributes to bridge treatment when replacing missing teeth. We’ll provide a clear estimate and discuss alternatives so you can choose confidently.

Fill The Space—Smile Fully Again

A custom bridge can restore your bite, maintain alignment, and bring back a complete smile without removable appliances.

Pak Dental
4373 Interpark Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
(248) 243-4876