Bridges

When you lose a tooth, it affects not just the appearance, but the function of your smile.

  • It can be difficult to eat or speak naturally
  • Extra stress is put on your remaining teeth
  • You’re at greater risk for developing gum disease
  • Your remaining teeth can shift out of position, causing bite problems
  • The shape of your face and jaw can change over time

A bridge is a restoration which will help you maintain your oral health while making your smile complete again.

Bridges use prosthetic teeth to “bridge” the gaps caused by missing teeth. These false teeth are known as pontics, and are crafted from metal, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal. Pontics can be matched in size, shape, and color to the teeth they are replacing for a natural appearance. A bridge can replace up to four teeth but is typically used to replace one or two.

There are four common types of bridges, and the type of bridge which is best for you will depend on your preferences, your oral health, the location and number of missing teeth, cost, and other factors. Because a bridge requires healthy teeth, gums, and bone for a long-lasting and successful restoration, any dental problems will need to be treated beforehand.

Traditional Bridge

Dental bridgeTraditional bridges are fixed in place and are anchored by crowns placed on the healthy teeth on each side of the gap. First, the two supporting teeth, known as abutment teeth, are prepared for crowns. This requires removing part of the tooth structure and creating an impression of each tooth. Crowns are created from these impressions and are attached on each side of the artificial tooth, creating the bridge. The crowns are then cemented to the prepared teeth, securing the entire bridge unit in place.

Cantilever Bridge

cantilever bridgeA cantilever bridge is used when there aren’t teeth available on both sides of the missing tooth to serve as abutment teeth. In this case, a healthy tooth on one side of the gap can be fitted with a crown to hold a single pontic. Because the pontic is only attached on one side, cantilever bridges aren’t recommended for the rear of the jaw, where chewing forces are much more powerful and the extra stress can damage the abutment tooth over time.

Maryland Bridge

maryland bridgeA Maryland bridge is a more conservative treatment than a traditional bridge because there is no need for crowns to hold the bridge in place. A pontic is created with two wings made of resin, porcelain, or metal attached to its back. These wings are then bonded to the backs of the two abutment teeth. This type of fixed bridge is often used to replace one or two front teeth; it’s not strong enough to replace molars. Because no crowns are necessary, a Maryland bridge is generally more cost effective than other options.

Implant-Supported Bridge

implant bridgeAn implant-supported bridge is a bridge attached to dental implants. Posts are surgically implanted in the jawbone, and, over a period of months, fuse with the bone, providing an exceptionally strong foundation for a bridge. The number of implants needed will depend on the location of the bridge (upper or lower jaw), the number of pontics, and the quantity and density of the bone.

Once the implant posts have healed and are well-integrated into the jawbone, metal or ceramic abutments are secured to the posts. The bridge is then secured to these abutments. The bridge can be fixed or removable for easier cleaning.

While this type of bridge is often the most expensive option, implant-supported bridges help protect jawbone health. Without the stimulation of biting and chewing, the bone ridge under a missing tooth begins to lose density and shrink. Implants stimulate bone tissue just as natural teeth do to preserve bone strength and density.

You have many options for replacing a lost tooth. Your dentist can help you determine which type of bridge is best suited to restore your healthy, confident smile.

Our Location

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    Very friendly and Helpful

    I recently moved here from Green Bay where I had the same dentist for many years. He set the standard high for tooth care. We searched around this area and talked to patients from several dental offices to see what they had to say. The comments about Dr. Jamie at Two Rivers Family Dental were very good so we decided to give them a try. I came in with necessary dental work needing to be done and the normal amount of anxiety with it. I am happy to say we, "nailed it" with our choice. Dr. Jamie and her assistant Laurie could not be more thorough, personal and educational as she proceeds which helps me relax (somewhat-along with a little laughing gas)! The office from the minute you walk in till you leave is very friendly and helpful if I have any questions. She met the standard we were used to and I recommend her to everyone!!

    Sharon B. November 19th 2020

    Emergency Care

    I had an emergency for my tooth today. Two Rivers Family Dental got me in right away and the staff was fantastic!! Made me feel very comfortable! Thank you Dr. Hansen.

    Katie R. August 17th 2017

    "I can smile again"

    My teeth were in terrible shape and plus I did have one broken off ….I did not want to smile at all ….after Dr. Hansen finished fixing my teeth I can smile again... thank You Dr. Hansen and all your staff for helping me smile again.

    Joyce M. December 19th 2018

    Julie Knows Insurance

    Great dental hygienist in Tracy and fine dental work done by Dr. Hansen. Julie knows insurance better than anyone!

    Barb W. April 25th 2018

    Kind and Respectful

    I had recently got a check up and I needed a filing. They were kind and displayed the up most respectful manner in making my dental experience a positive one. I will continue to be a patient of The Two Rivers Family Dental.

    Rebecca M. Febuary 6th 2018