Many of my patients at Northwest Dental Group come to me concerned about how a missing tooth has left a gap in their smile. A missing tooth affects more than just appearance—it also impacts chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. Many patients are surprised at how much difference even one missing tooth can make in the way their bite feels and functions. Fortunately, dentistry offers several solutions, and one of the most reliable options is a dental bridge. A bridge restores your smile, helps maintain proper alignment, and prevents other teeth from shifting. Let me explain what a bridge is, how it works, and why it may be the right choice for you.
A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration that literally “bridges” the gap left by a missing tooth. It consists of one or more replacement teeth, called pontics, that are anchored to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. These anchoring teeth are known as abutments. By connecting the replacement tooth to the surrounding teeth, the bridge creates a stable and natural-looking result.
Bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of porcelain fused to metal. I often recommend porcelain or ceramic bridges because they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing both strength and beauty.
The process begins by preparing the abutment teeth. These are reshaped to make room for crowns, which will hold the bridge in place. I then take impressions of your teeth, which are used to design a bridge that fits comfortably and looks natural. While the permanent bridge is being made at the dental lab, I place a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums.
Once the permanent bridge is ready, I carefully cement it into place. The result is a strong, durable restoration that restores function and appearance. With proper care, a dental bridge can last 10 years or longer, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence again.
Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge offers several important benefits:
Patients often tell me how much better they feel once their smile is whole again. A bridge is not just about looks—it is about protecting your overall dental health.
Most patients missing one or two teeth in a row are good candidates for a dental bridge, provided the teeth on either side are healthy enough to support crowns. If the surrounding teeth are weak or missing, dental implants may be a better solution. During your consultation at Northwest Dental Group, I will evaluate your oral health, discuss your options, and help you decide whether a bridge is the right choice.
A dental bridge can last 10 years or more with proper care. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are key to extending the life of your bridge. I also recommend avoiding chewing on very hard foods or using your teeth to open packages, as this can damage the bridge.
Yes. Modern bridges are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. I work closely with dental labs to make sure your bridge blends seamlessly with your smile. Most people will not be able to tell that you have a bridge.
The procedure is generally comfortable. I use local anesthesia during the preparation of the abutment teeth so you won’t feel pain. After the procedure, some mild sensitivity or soreness is normal, but this usually subsides quickly.
A bridge is supported by the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap, while a dental implant replaces the missing tooth root directly with a titanium post. Implants can last longer and help preserve bone, but not every patient is a candidate for them. A bridge may be a better choice if the surrounding teeth also need crowns.
Caring for a bridge is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush twice a day and floss daily, paying special attention to the area beneath the pontic. I often recommend floss threaders or small interdental brushes to keep the area clean. Regular dental visits are also important to monitor the health of the bridge and supporting teeth.
Yes. A traditional bridge can replace one or more teeth as long as there are healthy abutment teeth on each side of the gap. For larger spaces, implant-supported bridges may be recommended for additional stability.
The cost depends on the type of bridge, the materials used, and the number of teeth being replaced. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of a bridge. At Northwest Dental Group, we provide clear estimates and discuss financing options so you can make the best decision for your budget and health.
If you are missing a tooth and want to learn more about dental bridges, I invite you to visit me at Northwest Dental Group. As Dr. Nick Ruggio, I am committed to helping my patients restore their smiles and protect their long-term dental health.
Contact our Arlington Heights dental bridge dentist at Northwest Dental Group by calling 847-577-4444 to schedule your visit. Our office serves patients in Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, Palatine, Mount Prospect, and Buffalo Grove, Illinois. Together, we can find the right solution to restore your smile and improve your quality of life.
