Dental Bridges

It is important to replace a missing tooth, both for the appearance of your smile and for your long-term oral health. A dental bridge is one way Dr. Michael T. Smith and the team at Holladay Smiles can close that gap, anchoring a replacement tooth to the natural teeth on either side of it.

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with a custom-made replacement tooth, or pontic, held in place by crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap. A traditional bridge works best when those supporting teeth are healthy enough for a crown, or already need one for another reason. If they aren't strong enough, or you would rather not alter healthy teeth, Dr. Smith may recommend a dental implant instead; a consultation and exam will help determine which option is right for your smile.

• Restores function: A bridge helps you bite and chew more evenly across your smile.
• Supports facial structure: Replacing a missing tooth helps prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of position.
• Natural appearance: Your bridge is custom-made to match the shape, size, and shade of your surrounding teeth.
• Fixed in place: Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge is bonded in place and is not taken out for cleaning.

Getting a bridge typically takes two visits. At the first, Dr. Smith prepares the supporting teeth, takes an impression or digital scan, and places a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is made. At the second visit, the temporary is removed and your permanent bridge is checked for fit and bonded into place.