Restorative Dentistry

Dental Bridges in Bel Air, MD: Fill the Gap With a Fixed, Natural-Looking Restoration

A dental bridge is one of the most reliable ways to replace a missing tooth without surgery. It fills the gap with a custom-crafted artificial tooth held in place by crowns on the teeth on either side. The result is a fixed restoration that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. At Elevated Smiles Dentistry in Bel Air, MD, Dr. Joshua Englander designs bridges that blend seamlessly into your smile.

Strong & Natural

Strong & Natural

Built to last

What Is a Dental Bridge and How Does It Work?

A dental bridge literally bridges the space where a tooth is missing. The two teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth, are prepared by removing a small layer of enamel to make room for crowns. A custom bridge consisting of the two crowns and the artificial tooth, called a pontic, suspended between them is fabricated by a dental lab. The crowns are cemented permanently onto the abutment teeth, holding the pontic in the gap. The pontic rests on or just above the gum tissue, giving the appearance of a natural tooth growing from the gum.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is a proven, reliable option that has been used in dentistry for decades. Advantages include a fixed, non-removable result, no surgery required, relatively faster treatment time compared to implants, and good support from most dental insurance plans. Disadvantages include the requirement to alter healthy abutment teeth and the fact that a bridge does not stimulate the jawbone the way a natural root or implant does, which can lead to gradual bone loss under the pontic over time. For patients who prefer to avoid surgery or who do not have enough bone for an implant, a bridge is an excellent choice.

How Is a Dental Bridge Made and Placed at Elevated Smiles?

The bridge process takes two to three appointments. At the first appointment Dr. Englander prepares the abutment teeth, takes an impression or digital scan, and places a temporary bridge to protect the area while the permanent bridge is fabricated. At the second appointment the temporary is removed, the permanent bridge is tried in, and any adjustments needed are made to ensure proper fit and bite. The bridge is then cemented permanently in place. If your abutment teeth are healthy and do not require any additional treatment, the entire process typically takes two to three weeks from start to finish.

How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?

A well-maintained dental bridge typically lasts 10 to 15 years, and some last significantly longer. The critical factor is keeping the area under and around the bridge clean. Food and bacteria can accumulate under the pontic where a water flosser or floss threader is needed to reach. Routine checkups allow Dr. Englander to check the health of the abutment teeth and the integrity of the cement holding the bridge in place. A bridge that is well cared for is a durable and long-term solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

Is a dental bridge or an implant better for replacing a missing tooth?

Both can deliver excellent results. Implants are generally preferred when the adjacent teeth are healthy and there is adequate bone, because they do not require altering neighboring teeth and preserve bone long-term. A bridge is a good choice when bone grafting would be required for an implant, when the adjacent teeth need crowns anyway, or when surgery is not an option.

How much does a dental bridge cost in Bel Air, MD?

A three-unit bridge at Elevated Smiles Dentistry typically ranges from ,500 to ,500 depending on the materials used. Most dental insurance plans cover bridges as a major restorative procedure, typically at 50 percent after the deductible.

Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?

Yes. Once cemented, a bridge functions like natural teeth for eating. You may need a short adjustment period to get used to the feel of the restoration. Avoid chewing very hard objects like ice or hard candy directly on the bridge.

How do I clean under a dental bridge?

Standard floss cannot pass under the pontic. Use a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to clean under the bridge daily. Dr. Englander will show you the proper technique at your follow-up appointment.

What happens to my teeth if I do not replace a missing tooth?

The teeth on either side of the gap will gradually drift into the space. The tooth above or below the gap will over-erupt. These shifts change your bite, increase wear on surrounding teeth, and make replacement more complicated the longer it is delayed.
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Tuesday: 8am – 4pm

Wednesday: 7am – 3pm

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