If you have a missing tooth, a dental bridge offers a reliable way to restore your smile and protect your oral health. At Bay View Dental Care, we provide custom dental bridges that fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The bridge is anchored to your natural teeth or implants on either side of the space.
This fixed restoration helps you chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Serving Milwaukee, Bay View, and nearby communities since 1982, our experienced dentists focus on practical, long-lasting restorative solutions. Our practice is a detailed dental practice serving Milwaukee and the greater Bay View area, including Saint Francis, Cudahy, Greendale, Oak Creek, and all of the southeastern counties.
Love Dr Krohl she is a wonderful caring dentist is very considerate of how you are doing during procedures as well as her assistants and Molly is an outstanding hygienist l love her too!! BRENDA B
What Are Dental Bridges And How Do They Work
A dental bridge is a custom-made prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth, called a pontic, to the healthy teeth or implants on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are known as abutments.
The bridge is crafted as a single unit and cemented into place, so it stays fixed in your mouth. Once placed, the bridge restores your ability to chew and speak properly. It also prevents the surrounding teeth from drifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and jaw discomfort over time.
Benefits Of Choosing Dental Bridges For Missing Teeth
Choosing a dental bridge helps you regain a full set of teeth without hiding your smile. The restoration distributes your bite forces evenly across the abutment teeth, which protects your jaw function. A bridge also maintains or restores the natural shape of your face by supporting your lips and cheeks.
You can chew and speak more naturally than you would with a gap. The remaining teeth stay in their correct positions, reducing the risk of shifting and further tooth loss. The process is quicker than implant surgery and does not require a surgical phase.
Types Of Dental Bridges Available In Milwaukee
Bay View Dental Care offers several types of dental bridges to match different clinical situations. The most common option is a traditional bridge, which uses a crown on each abutment tooth with a pontic suspended between them. These bridges are made from durable materials such as porcelain, semi-precious metals, or a combination of metal fused to porcelain.
A cantilever bridge is used when you have adjacent teeth on only one side of the gap. Maryland bonded bridges use a metal framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth and are made from plastic or resin. Your dentist will recommend the type that fits your needs.
The Dental Bridge Procedure Explained Step By Step
The dental bridge procedure typically takes place over two visits to our Milwaukee practice. During the first appointment, we prepare the abutment teeth by reshaping them so crowns can fit securely. We then take a detailed impression of the prepared teeth and the gap. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your custom bridge is skillfully made.
We place a temporary bridge to protect the area while you wait. About two weeks later, you return for the second visit. We remove the temporary, check the fit and appearance of the permanent bridge, and cement it firmly into place.
Essential Care Tips For Maintaining Dental Bridges
Taking care of your dental bridge helps it last longer and keeps your surrounding teeth healthy. Clean under the pontic daily using floss threaders or an interdental brush to remove plaque and food particles. Brush your bridge and natural teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Regular dental check-ups at Bay View Dental Care allow us to examine the bridge and the supporting teeth for any signs of wear or decay. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens, which can damage the bridge material. With consistent care, your bridge can serve you well for many years.
Comparing Dental Bridges With Implants And Dentures
Dental bridges, implants, and dentures each offer different ways to replace missing teeth. A bridge is fixed in place and feels stable, but it requires altering the adjacent teeth for support. A dental implant replaces the tooth root with a post placed in the jawbone, so it does not affect neighboring teeth.
Still, implants involve surgery and a longer treatment timeline. Dentures are removable and can replace multiple teeth or a full arch, but they may feel less secure than a fixed bridge. Your dentist can help you weigh the cost, durability, and maintenance of each option.
Factors Influencing The Lifespan Of Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can last between 5 and 15 years, and several factors influence how long yours will remain functional. The material you choose matters. Porcelain fused to metal and all-ceramic bridges offer different levels of strength and wear resistance. Your oral hygiene routine is the most important factor you control.
Keeping the abutment teeth free of decay helps the bridge stay anchored. The alignment of your bite and the forces you place on the bridge during chewing also play a role. Attending regular dental visits allows us to catch small issues before they shorten the life of your restoration.
What To Expect During Your Dental Bridge Consultation
Your consultation at Bay View Dental Care begins with a thorough examination of the missing tooth and the surrounding area. We will discuss your health history and any concerns you have about the gap in your smile. Our dentists will evaluate the condition of the teeth next to the space to determine if they can serve as strong abutments.
We may take digital images to assess the underlying bone and gum health. You will learn which type of bridge suits your situation and receive a clear outline of the treatment steps. This is a good time to ask questions about materials, timing, and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
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A dental bridge is a device that replaces one or more missing teeth. It connects an artificial tooth to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, helping restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
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Dental bridges help fill gaps in your smile and improve your bite. They also support the shape of your face and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, which can lead to further dental issues.
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The dental bridge procedure usually involves two visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the abutment teeth and takes impressions, while the second visit is for placing the permanent bridge.
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There are several types of dental bridges, including traditional, cantilever, and Maryland bonded bridges. Your dentist will recommend the best type based on your specific needs and the condition of your teeth.
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To maintain your dental bridge, clean it daily using floss or an interdental brush. Regular dental check-ups are also important to ensure the bridge and surrounding teeth remain healthy.
Why Choose Bay View Dental Care For Your Dental Bridges?
Bay View Dental Care specializes in providing high-quality dental bridges to restore your smile. Our experienced dentists, including Dr. Jadwiga Krol and Dr. Peters, have decades of combined experience in restorative dentistry. They focus on creating a comfortable environment while ensuring you receive quality, detailed dental care. We understand the importance of a functional and beautiful smile, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve that.
We offer various types of dental bridges to meet your specific needs. Whether you need a traditional bridge or a Maryland bonded bridge, our team will guide you through the options. We take the time to explain the procedure and what to expect, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your treatment. At Bay View Dental Care, we prioritize your oral health and satisfaction, making us a trusted choice for dental bridges in Milwaukee.
About UsSchedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation Today
If you are ready to close the gap in your smile with a dental bridge, Bay View Dental Care is here to help. Our practice has served Milwaukee, Bay View, and the surrounding communities with quality restorative dentistry since 1982. We welcome new patients and accept most insurance plans.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jadwiga Krol on