WatchDental Bridges
How a dental bridge fills the gap from a missing tooth
A dental bridge is a fixed, non-removable replacement for a missing tooth — or several missing teeth in a row. It works by anchoring a new replacement tooth (the "pontic") to crowns on the neighboring natural teeth, literally bridging the gap. For patients who aren't candidates for a dental implant or prefer a non-surgical option, it's a reliable solution that restores chewing and prevents the surrounding teeth from drifting.
This video shows the process step by step. The neighboring teeth are gently shaped to receive crowns, an impression is taken, and a temporary bridge protects the area while a dental laboratory custom-makes your permanent bridge. At a follow-up appointment, the final bridge is cemented in place and fine-tuned for a comfortable bite.
Bridges can be all-ceramic for a natural look, all-metal for maximum strength, or a combination. With good home care, a bridge can last many years — though cleaning underneath requires a slightly different technique than flossing natural teeth, which we'll happily demonstrate at your visit.
If you're weighing your options for replacing a missing tooth, schedule a consultation at Brammeier Dental of Naperville. Dr. Brammeier will walk through whether a bridge, a single-tooth implant, or another option fits your situation best.
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