Dental Bridges in Emeryville, CA

A bridge is more than just a structure that connects two places—it’s a way to span gaps, restore connections, and make life easier. Whether it’s a towering suspension bridge or a simple footpath over a stream, a bridge is a solution to gaps that might otherwise limit us. In dentistry, a bridge effectively restores smiles, filling the spaces left by missing teeth. At San Francisco East Bay Mini Dental Implants, Dr. Rose Magno crafts durable, natural-looking dental bridges that improve your oral function and restore the confidence that comes with a complete smile.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Dental Bridges in Emeryville, CA | Dr. Rose Magno
This traditional bridge is anchored to prepared teeth on each side of the gap.

According to the CDC, tooth loss is one of the dental conditions that most impacts your quality of life. Fortunately, there are many solutions for replacing missing teeth and taking back control of your oral health.

A dental bridge is a unit of false teeth used when you have lost one or more teeth in a row. We place this restoration over healthy adjacent teeth or dental implants. Unlike a partial denture, a dental bridge is fixed in place, providing increased stability and better oral function.

Not only do dental bridges improve your ability to chew properly and speak clearly, but they also prevent your teeth from shifting. This is more important than you might realize. Without a bridge, neighboring teeth can move toward the empty space, changing your alignment. Misaligned teeth create bite issues and make oral hygiene more challenging. By keeping your teeth in their proper positions, a dental bridge maintains the function and harmony of your smile.

Types of Dental Bridges

Tooth loss looks different for everyone, as the number of teeth affected and the causes—such as injury, decay, or gum disease—can vary greatly from person to person. Fortunately, different types of dental bridges can address various tooth replacement situations.

Traditional Fixed Bridge

A traditional dental bridge replaces missing teeth by anchoring to healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. The ends act as crowns, while a false tooth is suspended between them to close the gap. For these types of bridges, the adjacent teeth must be healthy and strong enough to support the restoration. To place them, we need to remove some of the enamel from these support teeth so the crown portion fits on top.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever dental bridge is similar to a traditional one, except it is supported on just one end with a dental crown. We may use these to replace back teeth or when there is only one healthy tooth neighboring the gap. Preparation is very similar to a traditional bridge, but we only prepare one support tooth by removing a layer of enamel.

Maryland Bonded Bridge

Some situations call for a Maryland bridge, which connects to the healthy teeth next to the gap using a different method. The bridge replaces the crowns on each end with a wing-like framework. Instead of crowning the adjacent teeth, we bond the framework to the backside of the support teeth.

This procedure is the least invasive since we etch the wings and bond them to the back of the teeth. This conservative approach adds material instead of removing enamel.

A Maryland bridge is ideal for replacing front teeth (where chewing forces are lighter) because its wing-like supports aren’t as strong as the crown supports used in traditional or cantilever bridges.

Implant-Supported Bridge

Another type of dental bridge is implant-supported. Similar in look to a traditional bridge, an implant bridge attaches to dental implants that we embed in your jawbone. At San Francisco East Bay Mini Dental Implants, Dr. Magno prefers to secure these restorations with innovative mini dental implants. Because of the slim design of mini implants, more patients are eligible for advanced tooth replacement solutions.

To place an implant bridge, Dr. Magno will administer a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Then, she’ll make a small hole directly through the gums wherever you need implants. The unique construction of mini implants allows her to screw the posts in place and immediately attach a temporary bridge. In as little as one visit, you can enjoy functional new teeth that are built to last!

Dental Bridges in Emeryville, CA | Dr. Rose Magno

Why Are Dental Bridges Paired With Dental Implants?

Dr. Magno often recommends implant-supported bridges to patients seeking long-lasting results and superior performance. Once placed, mini implants are intended to be permanent fixtures in your mouth, anchoring your bridge for the long haul.

Consider these important benefits of implant bridges:

  • Improved stability and durability: Implant-supported bridges are anchored to the jawbone, providing a more secure and long-lasting solution.
  • Enhanced chewing function: The stability of implants allows you to bite and chew confidently, enjoying a diet that includes even tough or crunchy foods!
  • No alteration of natural teeth: With implant-supported bridges, we don’t need to alter the healthy teeth next to the gap.
  • Better jawbone health: By stimulating the jawbone when you chew, implants prevent bone loss and preserve your facial appearance.
  • Greater versatility: We can use implant bridges when there are no supporting teeth next to the gap.

Made from high-quality dental materials, implant-supported bridges also look great and blend beautifully with your natural smile.

Fill the Gaps in Your Smile With Dental Bridges

Bridges connect, restore, and transform—whether they span a river or fill the gaps in your smile. Dental bridges are a reliable solution to replace missing teeth, improve oral function, and prevent shifting that can disrupt your bite alignment. With options like traditional bridges or advanced implant-supported designs, there’s a solution tailored to your unique needs. At San Francisco East Bay Mini Dental Implants, Dr. Rose Magno is here to help you reclaim the confidence and functionality of a complete smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if a dental bridge is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of a dental bridge depends on various factors, such as the type of bridge, the materials used, and the number of teeth being replaced. For example, a traditional bridge might cost less than an implant-supported one, but the long-term durability and benefits of implants often make them a better investment.

At San Francisco East Bay Mini Dental Implants, we focus on creating personalized treatment plans that suit your smile and your budget. We’re happy to discuss your options and provide a cost estimate during your consultation. Plus, we work with insurance and offer financing plans to make your new smile as affordable as possible!

No, dental bridges are not removable. This is one of the key features that sets them apart from partial dentures. Unlike partials, which are taken out daily, dental bridges are fixed in place. This secure fit provides greater stability, comfort, and functionality, making them feel more like natural teeth. With a dental bridge, you don’t have to worry about your false teeth shifting or moving while you eat, speak, or smile.

Yes, food particles can sometimes get trapped under a dental bridge, especially near the gap it’s designed to fill. That’s why proper cleaning is essential to maintain oral health. Use a water flosser or a floss threader to clean underneath the bridge, and brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. And don’t forget those regular dental checkups! They’re key to keeping your bridge clean and your gums healthy. With good oral hygiene and routine cleanings, your dental bridge can last many years.

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