A missing tooth affects more than your appearance. It can cause neighboring teeth to shift, alter your bite, lead to bone loss, and make chewing difficult. At Madison Lakes Dental, Dr. Ellickson designs custom dental bridges that fill gaps with natural-looking replacement teeth, restoring your smile, function, and confidence.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that literally "bridges" the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored by crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Once cemented in place, a bridge looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridge
The most common type, a traditional bridge uses crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap as anchors (abutments) with a pontic in between. This is appropriate when you have strong, healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth.
Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge anchors to natural teeth on only one side of the gap. This option is used when teeth are present on only one side or when the bite forces allow single-sided support.
Maryland Bridge
A Maryland (resin-bonded) bridge uses metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth rather than full crowns. This more conservative option preserves healthy tooth structure but is best suited for front teeth with lighter bite forces.
Dental Bridge vs. Implant
Both bridges and dental implants replace missing teeth effectively. The right choice depends on your situation:
- Bridges require healthy adjacent teeth for support, involve no surgery, and are typically completed in two to three weeks.
- Implants stand independently without affecting neighboring teeth, require a surgical procedure, and involve a longer treatment timeline (three to six months) but can last a lifetime with proper care.
Dr. Ellickson evaluates your bone health, adjacent tooth condition, and personal preferences to recommend the best option for your situation.
The Bridge Procedure
- Consultation — Dr. Ellickson evaluates the gap, adjacent teeth, and your bite to design an appropriate bridge.
- Preparation — Abutment teeth are shaped to accommodate crowns. Impressions are taken for the laboratory.
- Temporary Bridge — A provisional bridge protects your prepared teeth while the permanent one is crafted.
- Final Placement — Your custom bridge is checked for fit, bite, and aesthetics, then permanently cemented.
Caring for Your Bridge
A dental bridge requires diligent oral hygiene to last. Special floss threaders or interdental brushes help clean under the pontic where food can accumulate. Brush and floss around your bridge daily and maintain regular dental cleanings so Dr. Ellickson can monitor its condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bridge costs depend on the number of teeth being replaced, the material chosen, and your insurance coverage. Most dental plans cover bridges as a major restorative procedure, typically at 50% after your deductible. Our team provides clear estimates and verifies your benefits.
With proper care, dental bridges last 10 to 15 years on average. Some patients maintain their bridges for 20+ years. Regular checkups, good hygiene, and avoiding excessive forces extend bridge longevity.
Neither is universally better; each has advantages. Bridges are faster, non-surgical, and less expensive upfront. Implants preserve adjacent teeth, prevent bone loss at the extraction site, and can last a lifetime. Dr. Ellickson helps you weigh the pros and cons based on your unique situation.
Yes. Once you adjust to your new bridge (usually within a few days), you can eat normally. Start with softer foods and gradually return to your regular diet. Avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge.
Most dental insurance plans classify bridges as a major procedure and cover them at 50% of the allowed amount after your deductible. Some plans have waiting periods for major work. Our team verifies your specific coverage before proceeding.
Complete Your Smile
Do not let a missing tooth compromise your health, appearance, or quality of life. Madison Lakes Dental in Madison, WI provides custom dental bridges that restore your smile and function with lasting results.