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Restorative care

Dental bridges in Saratoga Springs

A missing tooth changes more than your smile. You may chew on one side, or notice nearby teeth starting to lean. A bridge closes that gap with a replacement that is fixed in your mouth.

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What is a dental bridge?

Think of it as a short row of linked teeth. The fake tooth in the middle is joined to crowns on its left and right. Those crowns fit over the teeth or implants next to the gap and hold the new tooth in place. It is cemented in, so there is nothing to remove before bed.

  • Closes the space where a tooth used to be
  • Stays in your mouth, unlike a removable partial
  • Held in place by the teeth or implants on each side

Is a bridge a good fit for you?

When a tooth is lost, the teeth around it can slowly tip or drift into the open space. The tooth above or below it may also start to move. Over time this can change your bite and make cleaning harder. A bridge can help hold everything in line. It may suit you if:

  • The gap is one tooth wide, or two to three teeth side by side
  • The teeth on both sides of the gap are strong and healthy
  • Your gums are in good shape
  • You would like a fixed tooth rather than one you take out

A bridge is not the only way to fill a gap. An implant replaces the tooth without changing the teeth beside it. A partial denture can replace several teeth in different spots. We lay out how each choice compares on time, upkeep and cost so the decision is yours.

Steps to your new bridge

  1. Exam and planning. Your dentist checks the gap, the teeth next to it and your gums. X-rays help show if the support teeth are strong enough.
  2. Preparing the support teeth. After numbing, the teeth on each side are reshaped so crowns can fit over them.
  3. Recording your bite. Impressions of the area are sent along so the bridge matches your mouth.
  4. Temporary bridge. You wear a temporary bridge to protect the teeth while the final one is made.
  5. Final fitting. Your dentist checks how the bridge looks, fits and feels when you bite, then bonds it in place.

Keeping your bridge clean

The false tooth sits just above the gum, and food can collect under it. Regular floss cannot pass between joined teeth, so you will need to thread the floss under the bridge. A floss threader, special floss with a stiff end or a small water flosser can make this easy. We will show you how at your visit.

Brush morning and night, and see us for cleanings on schedule. Healthy support teeth and gums are what keep a bridge working well.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about dental bridges

How many years will a bridge hold up?
A well cared for bridge can serve you a long time. The biggest factor is the health of the teeth holding it up. Cleaning under the bridge every day and getting regular checkups helps it last longer.
Should I choose a bridge or an implant?
The answer comes down to your bone, the teeth beside the gap and what you want. A bridge is often quicker to finish. An implant does not rely on the teeth next to it. Your dentist will help you compare both.
Will it feel strange to eat with a bridge?
It may feel a little different for the first few days. Most people get used to it fast. Start with softer foods and cut things into smaller bites until it feels normal.
Can a bridge be removed?
You cannot take it out yourself. If a bridge ever needs to be replaced, your dentist can remove it in the office.
Does insurance cover bridges?
Many dental plans help with the cost of a bridge. Before any work starts, our team runs your benefits and writes up your expected share. See our insurance page for details.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Dental Crowns

A custom cap that covers a weak or damaged tooth so you can chew with confidence again.

About dental crowns

Dentures

Full or partial dentures, custom made to replace missing teeth and help you eat and speak with ease.

About dentures

Questions?

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Our Saratoga Springs team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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