Losing a tooth is more than just a cosmetic concern. It can throw off your bite, change how you chew, and even affect how you speak. And while the space might not seem like a big deal at first, over time, that gap can lead to shifting teeth, jaw strain, or even bone loss. Fortunately, there’s a straightforward and reliable solution—dental bridges.

Dental bridges are aptly named because they literally "bridge the gap" left by one or more missing teeth. They restore not just your smile, but the function and stability of your mouth as a whole. And when done by a skilled dental team—like the one at Pak Dental—they can look and feel as natural as your original teeth.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) prosthetic that replaces missing teeth by anchoring to the neighboring teeth or dental implants. In simple terms, it’s like building a small, personalized structure to span the empty space in your smile.

A standard dental bridge typically includes:

• Abutment teeth: The healthy teeth or implants on either side of the gap, which act as support pillars.
• Pontics: The artificial teeth that fill the space, usually made from porcelain, zirconia, or a combination of materials.

There are a few different types of dental bridges, depending on your needs:

• Traditional bridge – Supported by natural teeth on both sides with crowns placed over them.
• Cantilever bridge – Anchored on only one side (less common).
• Maryland bridge – Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth; more conservative.
• Implant-supported bridge – Anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth for greater stability.

Your dentist will help determine which type is right for you based on the location of the gap, the condition of the surrounding teeth, and your long-term goals.

How the Dental Bridge Process Works

Getting a dental bridge is typically a two-step process—but don’t worry, it’s not as complex as it sounds.

Step 1: Tooth Preparation and Impressions

If you're getting a traditional bridge, the dentist first reshapes the abutment teeth (those next to the gap) to make room for crowns. Then, they’ll take impressions of your teeth to send to the lab. You’ll leave with a temporary bridge to protect the area in the meantime.

Step 2: Fitting the Permanent Bridge

Once your custom bridge is ready (usually in about 1–2 weeks), the dentist will remove the temporary one, check the fit of the new bridge, and make sure it aligns with your bite. Once everything looks good, the bridge is cemented into place.

No surgery. No extensive downtime. Just a secure, long-lasting fix.

Why Choose a Dental Bridge?

There’s more at stake with a missing tooth than you might think. A gap can trigger a domino effect—one that quietly impacts your oral health and appearance over time.

That’s where dental bridges shine.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), bridges can help maintain your face shape, support your bite, and prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of alignment.

Here’s what makes them so valuable:

• Restored function – Chew and speak with ease again
• Improved aesthetics – Bridges fill out your smile and facial structure
• Prevent shifting – Keeps your natural teeth from moving into the gap
• Boosts confidence – No more hiding your smile or adjusting how you talk
• Sturdy and stable – Unlike partial dentures, bridges are fixed in place

Professional Endorsement: Backed by Research

Numerous studies in journals such as the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry show that well-maintained dental bridges have high success rates, with many lasting 10–15 years or longer. In fact, bridges have been used for decades as a reliable, cost-effective solution for missing teeth—and with advances in materials and digital design, today’s bridges are more lifelike and durable than ever.

Caring for Your Bridge Like a Pro

A dental bridge can be a long-term solution—but only with proper care. Because food and plaque can collect around and under the pontic (the false tooth), hygiene is key.

Here’s how to make your bridge last:

• Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush
• Floss daily using a floss threader or special interdental brushes to clean under the bridge
• Use mouthwash to kill bacteria in hard-to-reach places
• Avoid sticky or super hard foods that could weaken the bridge
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups

If you’re prone to grinding or clenching, your dentist might also recommend a nightguard to protect both your natural teeth and the bridge.

Dental Bridges vs. Implants: What’s the Difference?

Both options replace missing teeth—but the approach is different.

• Dental bridges rely on existing teeth for support and typically require less time to complete. They’re often ideal if the neighboring teeth already need crowns.
• Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and don’t impact surrounding teeth. They’re more permanent but require a longer healing process and more investment upfront.

Some patients also opt for implant-supported bridges—a hybrid approach offering the benefits of both.

The best choice depends on your health, bone density, budget, and personal preference. At Pak Dental, Dr. Pak will walk you through all options with clarity so you can make the best decision for your smile.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Bridge?

Most people with one or more missing teeth are candidates for dental bridges. But ideal candidates will also:

• Have healthy surrounding teeth or implants to support the bridge
• Maintain good oral hygiene habits
• Be free of active gum disease or significant bone loss
• Want a non-removable, reliable solution

If your supporting teeth are too weak or if you have extensive gum issues, your dentist may suggest alternative treatments. But for many patients, bridges offer the perfect middle ground between dentures and implants.

It’s More Than a Tooth—It’s a Quality-of-Life Fix

It might start with a missing molar. But soon you’re chewing on one side, adjusting your bite, maybe even smiling less. A dental bridge doesn’t just fix a gap—it restores balance. Comfort. Confidence.

And truthfully, that kind of fix isn’t just about teeth—it’s about how you live day to day.

Missing a tooth? Don’t let that small space become a big problem. Call Pak Dental at 248-243-4876 to schedule your dental bridge consultation in Auburn Hills. Let us help you rebuild your smile—stronger than ever.