Dental Bridges
A custom dental bridge can replace one or more missing teeth, restore chewing function, support a more complete smile, and help keep neighboring teeth from shifting out of place.
A Fixed Solution For A More Complete Smile
Missing teeth can affect how you chew, speak, smile, and maintain your bite. A dental bridge fills the space with one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, supported by neighboring teeth or dental implants.
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, dental bridges are designed to blend with your smile while restoring everyday comfort, balance, and function.
The Right Bridge Depends On Your Smile
Dental bridges are not one-size-fits-all. The best option depends on how many teeth are missing, the health of the neighboring teeth, your bite, your cosmetic goals, and whether dental implants are part of the plan.
A Bridge Should Feel Like Part Of Your Smile
Your dental bridge is customized for shade, shape, fit, and bite comfort. The goal is to replace what is missing without making the restoration look or feel out of place.
Because bridges interact with the teeth around them, careful planning matters. Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics evaluates the supporting teeth, gums, bite forces, and smile aesthetics before recommending treatment.
Different Ways To Replace Missing Teeth
Dental bridges and dental implants can both replace missing teeth, but they work differently. A traditional bridge is supported by neighboring teeth, while an implant-supported restoration uses dental implants placed in the jawbone. Your dentist can help determine which option fits your health, timeline, budget, and goals.
From Missing Tooth To Complete Smile
Most traditional bridge treatment is completed in two main visits after the consultation. Implant-supported bridges require additional healing time because the implants must integrate with the jawbone first.
Restorative Care With Cosmetic Detail
A dental bridge should restore more than the empty space. It should support chewing, improve confidence, preserve smile balance, and feel comfortable in your bite. Drs. Ken and Marnie Collins bring decades of Spokane dental experience to restorative and cosmetic treatment planning.
Answers Before You Begin
These answers help patients understand how bridges work, when they are recommended, how long they last, and how to care for them.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It includes artificial teeth, called pontics, that fill the gap and are supported by neighboring natural teeth or dental implants.
Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?
A good candidate may have one or more missing teeth and healthy supporting teeth or implants nearby. The gums, bite, bone support, and oral hygiene habits are also considered before recommending a bridge.
How long does a dental bridge last?
Dental bridges often last several years with proper care. Their lifespan depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, the health of supporting teeth, material choice, and regular dental visits.
Is a dental bridge removable?
A fixed dental bridge is not removed by the patient. It is bonded or cemented in place and can only be removed by a dentist. This is different from a removable partial denture.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
The procedure is typically performed with local anesthesia for comfort. Some temporary soreness, gum tenderness, or tooth sensitivity can happen after preparation, but it should improve.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Brush twice daily, floss daily, and clean underneath the bridge with floss threaders, super floss, or interproximal brushes. Cleaning under the bridge helps protect the gums and supporting teeth.
Is a bridge better than a dental implant?
It depends on your oral health, bone support, budget, timeline, and goals. Bridges can be a strong fixed option, while implants may help preserve bone and avoid preparing neighboring teeth. Your dentist can review both options with you.
Can a dental bridge replace several teeth?
Yes, a bridge can replace multiple missing teeth, but longer spans require more support. The dentist will evaluate the number of missing teeth, location, bite forces, and support available before recommending a bridge design.
Where can I get dental bridges in Spokane?
Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics provides dental bridges for patients in Spokane, Spokane Valley, South Hill, Veradale, Liberty Lake, and surrounding Spokane County communities.
Credible Bridge Education
Ready To Replace Missing Teeth And Smile With Confidence?
Schedule a dental bridge consultation with Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics in Spokane or Spokane Valley and find out which tooth replacement option fits your smile best.