Dental Bridges
Losing a tooth isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can affect everything from how you chew to how confident you feel in social situations. At Gentle Family Dentistry, we offer dental bridges in Augusta ME, Madison ME, and Winslow ME as a simple, reliable solution to replace missing teeth and restore both function and appearance.
If you’ve been avoiding smiling or struggling to eat your favorite foods, a bridge might be just what you need to bring balance back to your bite—and your life.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that literally "bridges the gap" left by one or more missing teeth. It’s anchored in place by the natural teeth on either side of the gap or by dental implants, depending on your situation.
The bridge itself consists of:
- Pontic – The artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills the gap
- Abutments – The crowns placed on neighboring teeth (or implants) that support the bridge
The result? A natural-looking, long-lasting replacement that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
A missing tooth might seem like a minor inconvenience—until it isn’t. Even a single gap can lead to:
- Shifting of surrounding teeth
- Bite misalignment and jaw discomfort
- Difficulty chewing and speaking clearly
- Bone loss in the jaw over time
- Loss of facial structure or “sunken” appearance
- Reduced self-confidence
Dental bridges offer a strong, aesthetically pleasing way to prevent those issues and restore full functionality to your mouth.
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
No two mouths are the same, so we offer several types of bridges to match your specific needs:
Traditional Bridges
These are the most common type and are supported by crowns placed on natural teeth on both sides of the gap.Cantilever Bridges
Used when there’s only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge. Less common but still effective in the right cases.Maryland Bridges
Also called resin-bonded bridges, these are ideal for replacing front teeth and use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of nearby teeth.Implant-Supported Bridges
For those missing multiple teeth, this type uses dental implants for support instead of natural teeth, offering superior stability and longevity.
We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each option and help you choose what’s best for your oral health and lifestyle.
What to Expect During the Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge typically involves two to three visits:
- Consultation & Evaluation
We’ll start by assessing your oral health, taking digital X-rays, and determining the best type of bridge for you. - Tooth Preparation & Impressions
If using natural teeth for support, we’ll gently reshape them and take impressions to send to our dental lab. You’ll receive a temporary bridge to wear in the meantime. - Bridge Placement
Once your permanent bridge is ready, we’ll fit it, make necessary adjustments, and cement it into place. The result? A stable, comfortable, natural-looking smile.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
With good care, a dental bridge can last 10 to 15 years or more. The key is maintaining strong oral hygiene habits and attending regular dental checkups so we can monitor the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Want to get the most out of your new smile? Here’s how to take care of your bridge:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily, especially under the bridge (we’ll show you how)
- Use a water flosser for easy cleaning
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy
- Keep up with dental visits for cleanings and exams
The better your care routine, the longer your bridge will last—and the healthier your smile will stay.
A Stronger, More Confident Smile Starts Here
At Gentle Family Dentistry, we know how much a complete smile can boost your confidence, comfort, and quality of life. Dental bridges are a trusted, time-tested solution that can restore what’s missing—both in your mouth and in your self-esteem.
Ready to close the gap? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a stronger, more complete smile.
