Dental Bridges in Arlington, MA
A missing tooth affects far more than your smile — it can impact your bite, your oral health, and your confidence in everyday life. At Dental Pro, we provide custom dental bridges that restore the appearance and function of your smile with a natural-looking, durable solution. Call us at (617) 607-2083 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth — called pontics — that are anchored in place by dental crowns cemented onto the healthy natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth, known as abutment teeth, hold the bridge firmly in position, allowing it to function just like your natural teeth for biting, chewing, and speaking. Unlike removable options such as denture partials, a dental bridge is permanently fixed in the mouth and does not need to be removed for cleaning.
At Dental Pro, dental bridges are custom-fabricated using high-quality, tooth-colored materials that are carefully matched to the shade of your surrounding teeth — creating a restoration that blends seamlessly with your natural smile. Our team uses advanced digital X-rays and 3D scanning technology to ensure precise fit and optimal comfort from the very first placement.
Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters
A missing tooth is more than a cosmetic concern. When a tooth is lost and not replaced, a series of oral health complications can develop over time. The teeth adjacent to the gap may gradually drift or tilt into the empty space, altering your bite and potentially causing jaw pain, uneven wear on other teeth, and difficulty chewing. The tooth in the opposing arch may begin to over-erupt — growing longer as it loses its opposing contact. Over time, the jawbone beneath the missing tooth can begin to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation, leading to changes in your facial structure. Unprotected gum tissue in the gap is also more vulnerable to bacterial buildup and gum disease.
A dental bridge from Dental Pro fills the gap promptly, preventing these complications and restoring the full function and appearance of your smile. Addressing tooth loss early is always the most effective approach — both for your oral health and for the complexity and cost of treatment.
What to Expect During the Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge at Dental Pro typically involves two appointments. At your first visit, our team will prepare the abutment teeth on either side of the gap by reshaping them slightly to accommodate the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Precise impressions or 3D digital scans of your teeth are taken and sent to our dental laboratory, where your custom bridge is crafted. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance while your permanent restoration is being made.
At your second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and your permanent custom bridge is carefully fitted, adjusted for bite and comfort, and permanently cemented in place. Our team will provide you with thorough guidance on how to care for your bridge — including how to clean beneath the pontic — to ensure it remains in excellent condition for years to come.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings and exams at Dental Pro, a well-maintained dental bridge can last 10 to 15 years or longer. If you are also considering a more permanent tooth replacement solution, our team can discuss dental implant restoration as an alternative. For patients missing more extensive numbers of teeth, dentures or denture partials may also be worth exploring. To learn about all of our smile restoration options, visit our restorative dentistry page or our full dental services page.
Ready to restore your smile with a dental bridge? Call Dental Pro at (617) 607-2083 or contact us to schedule your consultation in Arlington, MA today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
What is a dental bridge and how does it work?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth — called a pontic — to the natural teeth on either side of the gap using dental crowns. The crowns are cemented permanently onto the supporting teeth, holding the bridge firmly in place. At Dental Pro, bridges are custom-fabricated from tooth-colored materials matched to your natural smile for a seamless, natural-looking result.
Is a dental bridge better than a dental implant?
Both dental bridges and implant restorations are effective solutions for replacing missing teeth — the best option depends on your individual oral health, jawbone condition, and personal preferences. Implants are considered the gold standard as they replace the tooth root, preserve jawbone density, and do not require alteration of adjacent teeth. Bridges are a non-surgical alternative that can be an excellent choice for patients who are not implant candidates or who prefer a shorter treatment timeline. Our team at Dental Pro will evaluate your specific situation and discuss both options at your consultation.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care, a dental bridge from Dental Pro can last 10 to 15 years or longer. The longevity of your bridge depends on your oral hygiene habits, dietary choices, and whether you attend regular dental cleanings and exams. Our team monitors the condition of your bridge at every routine visit to ensure the supporting teeth and surrounding gum tissue remain healthy and that the bridge continues to fit and function correctly over time.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
The bridge procedure at Dental Pro is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not experience pain during the preparation of the abutment teeth or the placement of your bridge. Some mild sensitivity or soreness in the days following your first appointment — when the abutment teeth are prepared — is normal and typically resolves quickly. Our team will ensure your comfort throughout every stage of the process and provide guidance on managing any post-procedure sensitivity.
How do I clean and care for a dental bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge requires some additional attention compared to natural teeth, particularly beneath the pontic where the artificial tooth spans the gap. Use a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to clean beneath the bridge and around the abutment crowns daily. Brush twice daily as normal, and visit Dental Pro regularly for professional cleanings and exams. Avoid chewing on very hard foods or objects that could stress the bridge, and if you grind your teeth at night, ask our team about a custom night guard to protect your restoration.
Can a dental bridge be placed on the same day?
In most cases, a permanent dental bridge at Dental Pro requires two appointments — one to prepare the abutment teeth and take impressions, and a second to place the final bridge once it has been custom-fabricated by our dental laboratory. A temporary bridge is placed between appointments to protect your teeth and maintain your smile’s appearance. Same-day permanent placement is generally not possible, as the custom fabrication process takes time to ensure precise fit and quality. Our team will give you a clear timeline at your consultation.
What happens to the teeth supporting the bridge?
The natural teeth on either side of the gap — known as abutment teeth — are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to allow the supporting crowns to fit properly over them. This preparation is permanent, as the enamel does not regenerate. For this reason, it is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular checkups at Dental Pro to keep the abutment teeth healthy and strong for the long-term stability of the bridge. If the abutment teeth are ever compromised, the bridge may need to be replaced.