Dental Bridges in Chandler, AZ

A dental bridge is basically a fixed restoration used to replace one or more than one missing teeth. It fills gaps and restores normal function.

Dental bridges can last several years with adequate care and regular dental visits. Good hygiene helps maintain their condition.

Dental bridges are fixed and cannot be removed by the patient. They are designed to stay in place for long-term use.

You must brush and floss daily and clean under the bridge using special tools. Regular checkups help keep it in good condition.

A dental bridge is a restoration that fills up the space left by one or more missing teeth. It anchors to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap, with an artificial tooth, called a pontic, spanning the open space. Once placed, the bridge is cemented in and stays in place during daily use, functioning much like your original teeth.

Over time, the teeth surrounding the gap can begin to shift or move toward the empty space. This can lead to bite changes, uneven wear, and increased difficulty cleaning between teeth. In certain cases, bone loss in the jaw can also occur. Getting a bridge placed relatively soon after tooth loss helps prevent these issues from developing.

The process typically takes two appointments at our dental office near you. During the first visit, we prepare the supporting teeth on either side of the gap by reshaping them to hold the bridge. We take impressions and place a temporary bridge while your permanent one is being made. On your second visit, we fit and cement the final bridge into place and make any needed adjustments.

There are several options depending on your situation. Traditional bridges use crowns on both adjacent teeth for support. Cantilever bridges are used when there’s only one supporting tooth available. Implant-supported bridges don’t rely on natural teeth at all and are an option for larger gaps or when surrounding teeth are healthy, and you’d prefer not to alter them.

With proper care, dental bridges can last ten years or longer. The condition of the supporting teeth and your daily oral hygiene habits play a big role in longevity. Regular visits to your dentist in Chandler allow us to check the fit and condition of the bridge over time and catch any issues early.

The preparation appointment involves local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, some sensitivity is normal as the supporting teeth adjust, but this usually settles within a few days. If discomfort persists, let us know so we can take a look at the fit and make adjustments if required.

Since the bridge is fixed in place, flossing underneath requires a special floss threader or interdental brush. We’ll walk you through the correct technique at your fitting appointment. Keeping the area under the bridge clean is important for the health of the surrounding gums and supporting teeth.

Yes. If a bridge becomes worn or damaged over time, it can be removed and replaced. The supporting teeth would need to be evaluated to ensure they’re still suitable for a new bridge. In some cases, a patient may also choose to switch to an implant-supported option at that point.

A bridge is a fixed restoration that spans a gap using the adjacent teeth for support, whereas an implant is placed directly into the jawbone as a standalone tooth root. Implants don’t require altering neighboring teeth, but they involve a surgical procedure and a longer overall timeline. Your dentist in Chandler, AZ, can help you weigh both options based on your oral health and preference.

Numerous dental insurance plans offer some coverage for dental bridges when deemed an essential restorative procedure. Coverage differs among providers and plans, so our team is ready to assist in examining your benefits and clarifying your expected expenses prior to treatment.