A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. The result is a fixed restoration — it doesn’t come in and out like a denture.
When a bridge makes sense
A bridge is a good option when:
- You’re missing one or two teeth in a row
- The neighboring teeth are healthy enough to support a crown
- You want a non-surgical alternative to dental implants
Bridges work well for restoring appearance and function. They do require shaping the adjacent teeth to fit the crowns that anchor the bridge, which is permanent.
The process
A bridge is typically placed over two appointments:
- First visit — We prepare the anchor teeth by reshaping them, take impressions (or a digital scan), and fit you with a temporary bridge.
- Second visit — The permanent bridge is placed, adjusted for bite, and cemented in.
Most bridges last 10–15 years with good oral hygiene.
Caring for a bridge
You can’t floss directly through a bridge, but floss threaders or water flossers work well for cleaning underneath. Regular dental cleanings help keep the anchor teeth healthy, which extends the life of the bridge.
Bridge vs. implant
Implants are often the longer-term choice — they don’t involve reshaping healthy adjacent teeth and can last decades. Bridges are faster, less expensive, and don’t require surgery. The right choice depends on the health of your neighboring teeth, your budget, and your preferences. We’ll walk you through both options at your consultation.
Book a consultation in Centennial Hills
Call Centennial Family Dentistry at (702) 385-7415 or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Centennial Hills, Summerlin, Lone Mountain, and Northwest Las Vegas.