Does a Missing Tooth Hold You Back Each Day?
Struggling to chew comfortably on one side
Hiding your smile in photos and conversations
Feeling pain or soreness near the missing tooth area
Skipping social situations because of embarrassment
Bone and surrounding teeth slowly shifting over time
Missing out on meals and foods you used to enjoy
If any of these feel familiar, you're not alone. A solution exists that can restore both your function and your confidence.
What Happens When You Wait Too Long?
Teeth Begin to Shift
Adjacent teeth gradually lean into the open space, affecting your bite alignment.
Bone Loss Accelerates
Without a tooth root, the jawbone beneath the gap loses density over time.
Treatment Becomes Harder
The longer the gap remains, the more complex your restoration options may become.
Chewing Imbalance Grows
Compensating for one side puts added stress on your remaining teeth and jaw.
Costs Can Increase
Addressing bone loss, shifting teeth, or bite issues later typically requires more treatment.
Confidence Takes a Hit
The longer you wait, the more the habit of hiding your smile becomes ingrained.
Acting sooner means simpler treatment, better outcomes, and a faster path back to the smile you deserve.
What Is a Dental Bridge and How Does It Work?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of a pontic (the artificial replacement tooth) held securely in place by dental crowns placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the space. Once bonded, the bridge functions as a permanent part of your bite, restoring appearance and chewing function without anything removable.
Bridges have been a trusted tooth replacement option for decades, and at Raleigh Dental Arts, we use CEREC CAD/CAM technology and digital impressions to design bridges with greater precision and a more natural fit. For patients exploring dental bridges in Raleigh, NC, our in-house lab capabilities allow us to deliver restorations that match your natural teeth closely in both shape and color.
Bridges can replace one or more consecutive missing teeth
Most bridges last around 10 years or longer with proper care
Porcelain and zirconia are the most common materials used for natural appearance
Which Type of Dental Bridge Is Right for You?
| Factor | Resin-Supported Bridge | Traditional Bridge | Implant-Supported Bridge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best suited for | Small gaps, front teeth | One or two missing teeth with healthy adjacent teeth | Patients seeking a standalone restoration |
| Adjacent teeth impact | Minimal, uses bonding | Crowns required on neighboring teeth | None, no adjacent teeth needed |
| Longevity | 5-7 years | Around 10 years | 15+ years with proper care |
| Bone preservation | Does not preserve bone | Does not preserve bone | Preserves jawbone |
| Stability | Moderate | High | Highest |
| Number of visits | 2 visits | 2 visits | Multiple visits over several months |
| Materials | Composite resin | Porcelain, zirconia | Porcelain, zirconia |
| Maintenance | Standard brushing and flossing | Flossing under bridge required | Standard brushing and flossing |
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Eat Without Restriction: Chew comfortably on both sides again
Smile With Confidence: No gap to conceal or feel self-conscious about
Speak Clearly Again: Eliminate the subtle speech changes a gap causes
Feel Stable and Secure: A fixed restoration that doesn't move or shift
Preserve Your Smile's Shape: Keep surrounding teeth from drifting out of place
Look Completely Natural: A restoration matched precisely to your teeth
Is a Dental Bridge the Right Fit for You?
Have one or two consecutive missing teeth with healthy teeth on either side
Currently wearing a removable partial denture that doesn't feel secure
Want a fixed, non-removable solution that functions like a natural tooth
Have been told you may not qualify for a dental implant due to bone loss
Want to restore your smile without a lengthy surgical process
Not Sure If You Qualify?
What to Expect During Your Dental Bridge Treatment
Consultation and Planning
During your first visit, we examine your teeth, gums, and bite to confirm that a bridge is the right choice for you. Digital X-rays and a full evaluation give us a detailed picture of your oral health. You'll leave with a clear treatment plan and a full understanding of what to expect.
Tooth Preparation
We gently reshape the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) to create a stable foundation for the bridge. Local anesthetic keeps you completely comfortable throughout this step. A digital scan of your prepared teeth replaces messy traditional impressions and creates a precise 3D model for your custom restoration.
Temporary Bridge Placement
While your permanent bridge is being crafted using the digital model, we place a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth and maintain your smile's appearance. Most patients find this phase comfortable and functional.
Permanent Bridge
Placement When your custom bridge is ready, you return for final placement. We check the fit, color match, and bite carefully before bonding the bridge permanently in place. Minor adjustments ensure the restoration feels completely natural before you leave.
Ready to Eat, Smile, and Live Without a Gap Holding You Back?
What to Expect After Getting Your Dental Bridge
First 24-48 Hours
You may notice some tenderness around the abutment teeth and the gum line near the bridge. Mild over-the-counter pain relief is typically all that's needed. Sticking to softer foods during this period makes the first day or two much more comfortable for most patients.
First Week
Sensitivity gradually decreases, and most patients return to their normal routine within a few days. Gentle brushing around the bridge and flossing with a floss threader helps keep the area clean while your gums settle. Most people find they adapt to the feel of the bridge quickly and naturally.
Have Questions About Recovery?
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants vs. Partial Dentures
| Factor | Dental Bridge | Dental Implants | Partial Dentures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stability | High, fixed in place | Highest, fused to jawbone | Moderate, removable |
| Bone preservation | Does not preserve bone | Preserves jawbone | Does not preserve bone |
| Adjacent teeth impact | Crowns required on neighboring teeth | No impact on adjacent teeth | Clasps attach to nearby teeth |
| Longevity | Around 10 years with proper care | 20+ years with proper care | 5-10 years |
| Removable | No | No | Yes |
| Treatment time | 2-3 weeks | Several months | 2-4 weeks |
| Chewing ability | Strong and reliable | Closest to a natural tooth | Good but less stable |
| Maintenance | Flossing under bridge required | Standard brushing and flossing | Requires removal and cleaning |
| Initial investment | Moderate | Higher upfront cost | Lower upfront cost |
| Aesthetics | Natural-looking | Most natural appearance | Good but may show clasps |
Flexible Payment Plans for Your Smile
Don't Wait to Smile. Check out Our Payment Options.
Dental Bridge FAQs
How long do dental bridges last?
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
Will my bridge look natural?
Do I need to change how I eat with a dental bridge?
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Can anyone get a dental bridge?
What happens to the teeth on either side of the bridge?
How many appointments does a bridge take?
Is a dental bridge better than a partial denture?
What if I'm nervous about dental work?
Still Have Questions?​
