Missing teeth can affect much more than just your appearance—they can impact the way you eat, speak, and even how you feel about yourself. At Capital City Dentistry, we understand how important a complete, confident smile is to your daily life. That’s why we offer custom dental bridges as a reliable, natural-looking way to replace one or more missing teeth. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to decay, injury, or age, our bridges restore strength, function, and beauty to your smile.
Our skilled team in Jefferson City, MO, uses modern materials and advanced technology to create bridges that look and feel like real teeth. Each bridge is custom-designed to match the shape, color, and alignment of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and comfortable result.
How Bridges Replace Missing Teeth
A dental bridge literally bridges the gap left behind by a missing tooth or teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) that are held securely in place by crowns or attachments to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. These anchors provide stability, allowing the bridge to function like your natural teeth while restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile with ease. Dental bridges help to:
- Restore your smile’s natural appearance.
- Make eating and speaking easier.
- Prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of place.
- Maintain facial structure and jaw alignment.
When left untreated, a missing tooth can cause the surrounding teeth to drift, bite problems to develop, and even jawbone changes over time. A bridge not only fills the empty space but also helps protect your long-term oral health.
Types Of Bridges & Their Benefits
Every smile is different, and so are your restoration options. At Capital City Dentistry, we offer several types of bridges designed to meet your unique needs and goals.
- Traditional bridges: The most common type, anchored to healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. Each supporting tooth is fitted with a crown that holds the bridge securely in place.
- Cantilever bridges: Ideal when there is only one adjacent tooth available for support, providing stability and aesthetics even in limited spaces.
- Maryland (bonded) bridges: Instead of crowns, these bridges use a framework of metal or porcelain wings that bond to the backs of surrounding teeth. This minimally invasive method is often used for front-tooth replacements.
- Implant-supported bridges: Anchored directly to dental implants instead of natural teeth for maximum durability and stability. This option helps preserve bone structure and delivers a highly natural feel and function.
Each bridge type offers distinct benefits. Our dentists will evaluate your dental health, jawbone condition, and cosmetic preferences to recommend the best solution for your smile.
The Process Of Placing A Dental Bridge
Getting a dental bridge typically takes two to three appointments, allowing us to customize every detail for precision and comfort. Process overview:
- Consultation and planning: A comprehensive exam and digital imaging help us assess your needs and recommend the right bridge type.
- Tooth preparation: The adjacent teeth are gently reshaped to hold the supporting crowns, if applicable.
- Digital impressions or scans: Detailed scans allow us to design your custom bridge for a perfect fit.
- Temporary bridge placement: Protects your teeth and maintains your smile while your final bridge is created.
- Final placement: Your permanent bridge is precisely adjusted for bite, comfort, and aesthetics before being securely bonded.
How Bridges Improve Function & Appearance
Dental bridges don’t just replace missing teeth—they help you regain full function while protecting your oral health. Key benefits include:
- Improved chewing and speaking ability.
- A more natural, balanced smile.
- Stabilization of nearby teeth and bite.
- Reduced risk of jawbone loss.
- Enhanced confidence and self-esteem.
With proper care, your dental bridge can last well over a decade, providing years of reliable function and beauty.
Caring For Your Dental Bridge
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prolonging the life of your bridge. With the right care, your restoration will continue to look great and feel comfortable. Maintenance tips:
- Brush twice daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily: Clean under and around your bridge using a floss threader or water flosser.
- Schedule professional cleanings: Keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: Prevent damage to your restoration.
- Wear a nightguard: Protect against clenching or grinding.
Our team will provide detailed instructions and product recommendations to help you protect your investment and maintain your oral health.
Restore Your Smile With Confidence In Jefferson City, MO
A dental bridge is more than just a cosmetic fix—it’s a long-term solution that restores comfort, function, and confidence. At Capital City Dentistry, we take pride in providing personalized bridge treatments crafted from durable, lifelike materials to blend beautifully with your natural smile.
Ready To Complete
Your Smile?
Schedule your dental bridge consultation today and let our Jefferson City, MO team help you enjoy a complete, radiant smile once again.