Gloved hand holding upper and lower dental bridges

A fixed dental bridge is a restorative dental treatment that replaces one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap between healthy teeth or implants. The bridge includes artificial teeth, called pontics, supported by abutment teeth or dental implants. Depending on the case, a dental bridge can replace one to four missing teeth in a row. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, a dental bridge helps preserve your smile and oral health.

 

Dental Bridges in Cedar Park, TX

Missing one or more teeth? A custom dental bridge can beautifully restore the look, feel, and function of your smile. At New Hope Dentist in Cedar Park, we offer personalized, high-quality dental bridges designed to help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Pros of Smile Restoration with a Fixed Dental Bridge:

  • Restore your ability to eat and speak clearly
  • Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting
  • Support your natural face shape and jaw alignment
  • Give you back a complete, confident smile

Types of Dental Bridges

1. Traditional Dental Bridge
The most commonly used option. This type of bridge uses adjacent teeth as support by placing protective caps over them to hold the bridge securely in place.

2. Cantilever Bridge
Used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. This option is less stable and typically recommended for low-pressure areas like the front of the mouth.

3. Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded)
Often used to replace front teeth. This conservative option uses metal or ceramic wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, avoiding the need for crowns.

4. Implant-Supported Bridge
The most stable and long-lasting choice. This bridge is supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth, ideal for patients missing several teeth in a row.

What to Expect from the Dental Bridge Procedure

The dental bridge process typically takes two appointments:

First Visit – Preparation and Impressions. We gently reshape the supporting teeth and take digital impressions. A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth and maintain your bite.

Second Visit – Bridge Placement. We fit your custom bridge, check the bite and appearance, and permanently cement it in place. Final adjustments ensure comfort and a natural look.

Caring for Your Bridge

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits help extend the life of your bridge. Tips include:

  • Brush twice daily and floss under the bridge using a floss threader or water flosser
  • Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels
  • Keep up with routine dental cleanings and exams

Is a Dental Bridge Right for You? You may be a good candidate if:

  • You are missing one to four teeth in a row
  • You have healthy teeth or implants to support the bridge
  • You are looking for a fixed, natural-looking tooth replacement

If gum disease, decay, or jawbone loss is present, we will address those issues first.

Dental Bridge FAQs

Dental bridges are often quicker and more affordable upfront. Implants take longer to place but preserve jawbone health and do not require reshaping neighboring teeth. We will help you decide the best option for your needs during your visit.

Most bridges last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care.

Yes. Once adjusted, most patients eat comfortably. Avoid very hard or sticky foods.

Yes. Each bridge is matched to your natural teeth in color, shape, and size.

Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost. We can help you review your benefits.

Yes. If your bridge becomes worn or loose, we can replace it with a new, more modern version.