What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. It “bridges” the empty space left by a lost tooth, restoring both appearance and function.

There are different types of bridges, including:

• Traditional Bridges – Anchored to crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap
• Implant-Supported Bridges – Attached to dental implants rather than natural teeth
• Cantilever or Maryland Bridges – For specific cases, typically used on front teeth

We’ll help you decide which option is best based on your health, bone structure, and goals.

When Is a Dental Bridge Needed?

You may need a dental bridge if you:

• Have one or more missing teeth in a row
• Are not a candidate for dental implants
• Prefer a non-removable solution to a partial denture
• Want to restore your bite and facial symmetry
• Need to replace an old or damaged bridge

A missing tooth isn’t just a cosmetic concern—it can lead to shifting teeth, bite issues, and jaw stress. A bridge helps maintain proper alignment and function.

Benefits of Choosing a Dental Bridge

Patients across Midtown Reno, Arrowcreek, and Caughlin Ranch choose dental bridges because they:

• Restore your smile quickly and predictably
• Improve chewing and speaking ability
• Prevent teeth from shifting out of position
• Distribute bite forces evenly across your teeth
• Provide a fixed, natural-looking solution
• Are more affordable than implants in some cases

Looking for a dentist reno nv who offers personalized, high-quality tooth replacement? We're here to help you move forward with confidence.

Our Dental Bridge Process

Getting a bridge typically takes two visits, although this may vary based on your case:

1. Consultation & Imaging – We assess your missing tooth area and review replacement options.
2. Tooth Prep – If using a traditional bridge, the teeth next to the gap are gently shaped to support crowns.
3. Impressions or Scans – We capture precise digital images to create your custom bridge.
4. Bridge Fabrication – Our lab crafts your bridge using natural-looking, durable materials.
5. Final Placement – We bond your bridge in place and make bite adjustments as needed.

Your final restoration will look and feel like your natural teeth—restoring your smile and stability.

Implant-Supported Bridges: A Stronger Solution

For patients missing multiple teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be a better long-term solution. Instead of relying on neighboring teeth, this type of bridge attaches to dental implants placed in the jawbone, offering superior strength, bone preservation, and longevity.

Dr. David Kelly has advanced training in dental implants and will walk you through whether this is the right choice for your needs.

Bridges as Part of a Full Restoration Plan

A dental bridge may be part of a larger restorative dentistry or full mouth reconstruction plan. We may recommend pairing it with:

• Same-Day Crowns
• Dental Fillings
• Dental Implants

We’ll build a step-by-step plan that supports your smile, health, and long-term goals.