3100 S Congress Ave, Suite F, Austin, TX 78704
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth to the neighboring teeth or implants on either side of the space, restoring both appearance and function.
Unlike removable partial dentures, a bridge is cemented in place and does not come out. It restores the function of your bite, helps prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, and gives you back a more complete, confident smile.
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Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
It can be tempting to leave a missing tooth unaddressed — especially if it's not visible when you smile. But the effects of a gap extend well beyond appearance.
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone gradually begins to shrink over time. Neighboring teeth may slowly drift into the space, affecting alignment, bite balance, and overall oral function.
Over time, even a single missing tooth can gradually affect the surrounding teeth, bite, and overall stability of your smile. Replacing a missing tooth earlier is typically simpler and more conservative than waiting until additional problems develop.
How Long Does a Bridge Last?
With proper care, dental bridges can often last 10–15 years or longer. Their longevity depends heavily on oral hygiene and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
Keeping the area beneath the bridge clean is especially important. We’ll show you exactly how to care for your bridge at home using tools like floss threaders or water flossers to help keep everything healthy long-term.
Your Bridge Treatment, Step by Step
First Appointment — Preparation & Scans.
We begin by numbing the area and carefully reshaping the supporting teeth to accommodate the crowns. Precise scans of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory where your custom bridge is fabricated. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance while you wait.
Between Appointments.
Your bridge is custom-crafted in a dental lab to blend naturally with your smile. This typically takes two to three weeks.
Second Appointment — Cementation & Adjustment.
The temporary bridge is removed, and your permanent bridge is carefully fitted and adjusted for bite and comfort. Once everything looks and feels right, the bridge is securely cemented into place.
We'll walk you through care instructions before you leave.
Replacing a Missing Tooth Doesn’t Have to Feel Overwhelming
At TRU Dentistry SoCo, we’ll walk you through every option clearly and honestly so you can choose the solution that best fits your smile, lifestyle, and long-term goals.