Key Takeaways
- What is a bridge?: A tooth bridge helps fill in gaps where teeth are missing. It keeps your other teeth in place and helps you chew better.
- Types of bridges: There are several kinds of bridges, like traditional and Maryland bridges.
- How long do they last?: Bridges usually last about 10 to 15 years, but this depends on how well you take care of your teeth and gums.
- How to take care of a bridge: To keep your bridge safe, brush your teeth every day, floss daily, use mouthwash, avoid hard foods, and visit the dentist for checkups.
- When to see a dentist: If you feel pain, see that the bridge is loose, notice swelling, or if food gets stuck, you should tell your dentist right away.
If you’re missing a tooth, the gap does more than bother your smile. It can make chewing harder, cause other teeth to move, and sometimes even change the way your bite feels. One of the easiest ways dentists fix this is with a dental bridge. We talk about tooth bridges in Riverpark a lot in our office because they’re still one of the most practical ways to replace teeth without surgery.
What a Bridge Really Is
Patients sometimes think a bridge is just a fake tooth glued in. It’s a little more than that. A bridge uses the teeth on the sides of the gap, or implants, to hold a replacement tooth in place. Once it’s cemented in, it looks and feels like it belongs there.
Without a bridge, the space can cause problems. Teeth lean into it, food gets stuck, gums get sore. Over time, that small gap turns into bigger dental issues.
The Types We See Most
When people ask about tooth bridges in Riverpark, we usually explain four main kinds.
- Traditional bridge: most common; crowns go over the teeth on each side.
- Cantilever bridge: supported by just one tooth.
- Maryland bridge: uses a small wing or frame bonded to the back of nearby teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge: strongest option, connected to dental implants.
Not every type works for every mouth. A Maryland bridge is quicker, but it’s not as tough. An implant bridge lasts the longest, but it’s more of a process. We sit down with patients, show them the choices, and help them figure out what fits their needs.
How Long Do Bridges Last?
A common question: “Will I have to replace it soon?” Most tooth bridges in Riverpark last 10–15 years. Some last even longer. It really depends on how well the supporting teeth and gums stay healthy.
If those teeth weaken, the bridge weakens. If you brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly, the bridge can last well past the average.
Daily Care That Helps
Taking care of a bridge isn’t complicated. It just takes consistency.
- Brush like normal, two times a day.
- Floss underneath the bridge (threaders make it easier).
- Rinse with mouthwash if you can’t floss right away.
- Don’t chew ice or super-hard candy.
- Keep up with checkups every six months.
We’ve seen patients lose a bridge early because they skipped flossing. We’ve also seen patients keep the same bridge for nearly 20 years because they stuck to simple care.
Signs It’s Time to Call Us
A bridge isn’t supposed to hurt or feel loose. If it does, something’s off. Call if you notice:
- Gum swelling or bleeding near the bridge
- Pain when biting down
- Food always gets caught in the same spot
- The bridge is shifting or moving
Catching these problems early usually means an easy fix instead of a full replacement.
Why Bridges Are Still Popular
With implants available, some people wonder why we still do so many bridges. A few reasons:
- They don’t require surgery.
- They’re usually quicker to complete.
- They often cost less.
- They look natural.
That’s why many patients still choose tooth bridges in Riverpark. They’re dependable, affordable, and they restore both comfort and confidence.
How We Handle It at Clove Dental Riverpark
When a patient comes in with a missing tooth, we don’t just look at the space. We check the bite, the gum health, and the teeth that would support the bridge. That bigger picture matters.
Our goal is to offer something that lasts, not just a quick patch. For many people, a bridge is the right balance between cost, speed, and durability.
Bottom Line
If you have a missing tooth, you can get it fixed. A tooth bridge in Riverpark is an easy way to fill the gap. It helps your smile look good, makes eating easier, and keeps your other teeth in place.
At Clove Dental Riverpark, we think bridges are important for your teeth. If you want to fix a missing tooth, getting a bridge could be a good choice.
