If you have missing teeth, you may notice changes in how you chew, speak, or even how your smile looks. A dental bridge offers a simple and lasting way to restore your natural appearance and comfort. At Smiley Dental Group in Columbus, Dr. Holowicki, Dr. Moore, and Dr. Renshaw help patients across Dublin, Hilliard, and nearby communities regain function, balance, and confidence through personalized dental bridge treatments that protect long-term oral health.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a custom-made tooth restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by connecting an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to healthy teeth or dental implants on each side of the gap. The supporting teeth, known as abutment teeth, hold the bridge securely in place so your new tooth feels stable and natural.
Bridges are typically crafted from strong, aesthetic materials like porcelain frameworks, which mimic the color and shape of your natural teeth. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or several in a row, a bridge restores your bite and keeps your smile looking complete.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Replacing a missing tooth does much more than improve appearance — it also protects your oral health and overall comfort. Patients often experience:
- A more natural smile: A bridge fills the gap left by tooth loss, restoring the appearance of your smile.
- Improved chewing and speaking: Replacing missing teeth helps you eat and talk without discomfort.
- Prevention of shifting teeth: Filling spaces prevents surrounding natural teeth from drifting out of alignment.
- Protection for gum tissue and bone: Proper spacing supports the gum line and helps maintain a healthy bite.
- Long-term stability: With proper care, bridges offer lasting support and reliable function.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, each designed for different needs and number of missing teeth:
Our team will recommend the right type of bridge based on your unique smile, ensuring a secure, natural-looking result.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge typically involves two comfortable dental visits in our Columbus office.
Evaluation and Preparation
We begin by examining your natural teeth, gum tissue, and jaw bone to confirm they can support the bridge. A small amount of enamel is carefully reshaped on the abutment teeth to make room for the dental crowns that will hold the bridge.
Digital Impressions
Next, we take digital impressions or molds of your mouth, which guide our dental laboratory in creating your custom bridge.
Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge is placed to protect your smile until your permanent bridge is ready.
Permanent Bridge Placement
At your final visit, your new bridge is fitted, adjusted for comfort, and permanently cemented, completing your tooth replacement with a smooth, natural feel.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
A dental bridge can last for many years with proper care. Brush twice a day, floss around the abutment teeth and under the false tooth, and schedule regular dental visits. Avoid sticky foods and habits that put pressure on your bridge to maintain strength and stability.
Good oral hygiene not only protects your bridgework but also keeps the surrounding natural teeth and gum tissue healthy.
Restore Function and Confidence to Your Smile
If you’re ready to replace a missing tooth and restore your full, healthy smile, a custom dental bridge may be an excellent option. The team at Smiley Dental Group offers comfortable, personalized care to help you achieve lasting results.
Call 614-889-0726 or book online today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward restoring your smile.