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At the office of Joanna Tricorache, DDS, we help patients restore both the function and appearance of smiles that have been affected by missing teeth. Whether the loss happened gradually or suddenly, replacing absent teeth is about more than appearance — it’s about preserving chewing ability, maintaining jaw structure, and protecting the health of the surrounding teeth. Below you’ll find clear, practical information about dental bridges, how they work, what to expect, and how we guide patients toward durable, natural-looking results.
Even a single missing tooth creates a ripple effect inside the mouth. The remaining teeth can begin to shift toward the empty space, which gradually alters the way your upper and lower teeth come together. Changes in alignment can lead to uneven wear, new areas of sensitivity, and difficulty cleaning between teeth—each of which raises the risk of decay and gum disease.
When teeth no longer meet their natural partners, they can over-erupt or tilt out of position, which affects chewing efficiency and may place extra strain on the jaw joints (TMJ). Over time, this uneven loading can contribute to soreness, muscle tension, and headaches in susceptible people. Replacing missing teeth helps restore a stable bite and reduces the likelihood of these secondary problems.
Tooth loss also affects the supporting bone. In cases where a tooth has been missing for a while, the jawbone that once surrounded the root tends to resorb, changing facial contours and potentially compromising future treatment options. Early planning and the right restorative choice can limit bone loss and keep long-term options open.
Dental bridges are designed to recreate the look, function, and position of natural teeth. By bridging the gap left by one or more missing teeth, a well-made restoration restores a confident smile and distributes biting forces more evenly across the arch. Modern materials and techniques allow bridges to be strong, discreet, and customized to match the surrounding teeth.
Beyond purely cosmetic benefits, bridges protect adjacent teeth from drifting and help maintain the correct relationship between the upper and lower jaws. For many patients, a fixed bridge is a reliable way to improve speech, regain comfortable chewing, and prevent the progressive changes that can come from untreated tooth loss.
Because every mouth is different, modern dentistry offers a range of bridge solutions — from conservative resin-bonded options to full-coverage bridges supported by crowns or dental implants. The best choice depends on your oral health, the number of missing teeth, bone condition, and long-term goals.
Traditional fixed bridges use dental crowns on neighboring teeth to support one or more replacement teeth (pontics). This approach is time-tested and can deliver excellent esthetics and function when the adjacent teeth are strong and healthy. Preparation for crowns involves reshaping the supporting teeth so the bridge will have a secure fit and correct contours.
An implant-supported bridge offers another pathway: instead of relying on natural teeth for support, dental implants act as artificial roots. This option preserves adjacent tooth structure, provides excellent long-term stability, and helps maintain bone volume by delivering functional stimulation to the jaw. Implant bridges can replace anything from a single tooth to a span of several teeth or even a full arch in carefully planned cases.
There are also more conservative designs, such as resin-bonded (Maryland-style) bridges, which use metal or ceramic wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. These are sometimes appropriate when the supporting teeth are strong and minimal alteration is desired. Each design carries trade-offs in longevity, esthetic control, and preparation requirements — which is why a personalized treatment discussion is essential.
A predictable bridge outcome begins with a thorough diagnosis. We assess the health of the gums, the strength and position of adjacent teeth, and the amount of supporting bone. Digital records, photographs, and 3D imaging may be used to precisely evaluate the area and to plan restorations that feel natural and look harmonious with your smile.
If gum disease or active decay is present, those conditions must be managed before a bridge is fabricated. Healthy gum tissues and stable teeth are the foundation of a long-lasting restoration. In some cases, preparatory procedures such as root canal treatment, periodontal therapy, or minor gum reshaping are recommended to create the best possible setting for the prosthesis.
When implants are part of the plan, additional steps may include grafting procedures to rebuild lost bone so implants can be placed with predictable stability. We explain each phase clearly — what to expect, how long healing typically takes, and how we monitor progress — so patients feel informed and comfortable throughout the process.
For a traditional fixed bridge, treatment commonly takes place over several visits. The supporting teeth are prepared and impressions are taken to create a precisely fitting restoration. A temporary bridge protects the prepared teeth while the laboratory fabricates the final prosthesis. Once the permanent bridge is tried in and adjusted for comfort and bite, it’s cemented into place and you begin the period of fine-tuning and adaptation.
With implant-supported solutions, the timeline varies depending on whether implants can be placed immediately or if a period of healing is required. Implant surgery is performed in the office under local anesthesia and, when appropriate, sedation options are discussed. Most patients experience manageable discomfort after implant placement and find that proper pain control and post-operative instructions make recovery straightforward.
Functionally, patients often notice improved chewing and stability once the final restoration is in place. There can be a short adjustment period as your muscles and teeth adapt to the new contacts; follow-up visits allow us to refine the fit and occlusion. Long-term success depends on good oral hygiene and routine dental care to protect both the bridge and the supporting structures.
At the office of Joanna Tricorache, DDS, our goal is to help you weigh the options and choose a tooth-replacement plan that aligns with your needs and lifestyle. If you’re considering a bridge or want to learn how different restorative choices could work in your situation, please contact us for more information. We’re happy to answer your questions and guide you toward a well-informed decision about your smile.
Your new bridge is customized to the exact specifications of your smile. Before cementing to the underlying teeth or affixing it to the supporting implants, the shade, occlusion, and all aspects of its fit get carefully checked. In addition to being designed to blend seamlessly with your smile, it's also made to suit your bite and withstand all manner of oral function. We take great care to make sure your new restoration looks great, fits well, and that your bite feels comfortable.
Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge is a worthwhile investment in the look, health, and function of your smile. While many dental insurances offer coverage for a dental bridge, and some toward the cost of implants, the benefits and amounts can vary significantly from plan to plan. At the office of Joanna Tricorache, DDS, we understand the financial considerations involved in care and do all we can to help patients begin treatment without any additional stress or delay. In addition to doing our best to optimize your dental benefits, we also offer several payment and financing options. Feel free to contact our office if you have any questions on the cost of care, dental insurances, financing plans, or acceptable forms of payment.
Now that your new permanent crown or bridge is in place, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene. With proper care, your new restorations will last for years to come. Make sure to brush and floss as instructed. We'll show you how to floss under your dental bridge to keep your new smile clean and bright. Remember to make appointments for your routine checkups and professional cleanings.
The standard answer is that with routine dental visits and good home care, a bridge can last ten to fifteen years, and in many cases, much longer.
At the office of Joanna Tricorache, DDS, we fabricate your bridge from the highest quality dental materials to achieve the most cosmetically pleasing and lifelike results of care. It's also customized to the exact specifications of your smile and designed for optimal aesthetics, strength, and stability. Once fabricated and cemented into place, you'll feel confident sharing your smile, speaking, and eating your favorite foods.
As your trusted partner in care, we analyze every aspect of your smile to develop a treatment plan that provides aesthetically pleasing, healthy, and long-lasting results of care.
For more information on dental bridges, or any services we provide, give us a call today.
Ready to schedule your next dental appointment or have questions about our services?
Contacting Joanna Tricorache, DDS is easy! Our friendly staff is available to assist you with scheduling appointments, answering inquiries about treatment options, and addressing any concerns you may have. Whether you prefer to give us a call, send us an email, or fill out our convenient online contact form, we're here to help. Don't wait to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams – reach out to us today and discover the difference personalized dental care can make.
