Dental Bridge in Gastonia, NC

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a highly effective fixed solution for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row. It consists of false teeth (called pontics) supported by two or more crowns that are attached to abutment teeth, which are the existing teeth on either side of the gap.These dental crowns anchor the bridge securely, restoring both function and aesthetics. 

Our custom dental bridges are crafted from high-quality materials like porcelain and zirconia to match the exact color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, creating a seamless, beautiful smile.

Unlike removable partial dentures, dental bridges are permanently fixed in place, providing superior stability and comfort for eating and speaking.

Types of Custom Dental Bridges in Gastonia

We offer several types of dental bridges to meet your specific needs and oral health situation:

Traditional Fixed Bridges

The most common type, using crowns placed on natural teeth adjacent to the gap to secure the bridge. Ideal when you have healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth or teeth.

Cantilever Bridges

Supported on one side by a single crown when only one adjacent tooth is available. Perfect for areas of the mouth with less chewing force, such as front teeth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Secured directly to dental implants rather than natural teeth, providing maximum stability and preserving adjacent healthy teeth. This option offers the longest-lasting solution and prevents bone loss.

Maryland Bridges (Resin-Bonded)

A conservative option using metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, requiring minimal tooth preparation.

When You Might Need a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge may be the ideal tooth replacement option for you if you're experiencing:

One or More Missing Teeth

If you've lost consecutive teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease, a bridge can effectively fill the gap and restore your smile.

Difficulty Chewing or Speaking

Gaps in your teeth can make basic activities like eating certain foods or clear pronunciation more challenging, affecting your quality of life.

Shifting Adjacent Teeth

Teeth lost from the dental arch cause surrounding teeth to shift into the empty space, leading to bite problems, jaw pain, and increased risk of decay and gum disease.

Aesthetic Concerns

Visible gaps can impact your confidence and professional appearance. Bridges provide a complete, natural-looking smile restoration.

Bite Alignment Issues

Missing teeth can cause uneven bite pressure, leading to excessive wear on remaining teeth and potential TMJ problems.

Dental Bridge vs Other Tooth Replacement Options

Understanding your options helps you make the best decision for your oral health and lifestyle:

Dental Bridge vs Dental Implants

Bridges:

• Faster treatment (2-3 weeks vs 3-6 months)
• Lower initial cost
• No surgery required
• Requires modification of adjacent teeth

Implants:

• Preserve adjacent teeth
• Last longer (lifetime vs 10-15 years)
• Prevent bone loss
• Higher initial investment

Dental Bridge vs Partial Dentures

Bridges:

• Fixed in place (no removal)
• Better chewing function
• More natural feel
• No daily adhesives needed

Partial Dentures:

• Lower cost
• Reversible treatment
• Can replace multiple non-adjacent teeth
• Requires daily removal for cleaning

Our team will help you evaluate which option best fits your needs, budget, and long-term goals.

The Dental Bridge Procedure in Gastonia

At Gaston Dental, we ensure that getting a dental bridge is a smooth and comfortable process designed to deliver optimal results:

1. Comprehensive Consultation and Planning

We'll perform a thorough evaluation including digital X-rays and 3D imaging to assess your oral health, bone structure, and determine the best bridge type for your situation.

2. Tooth Preparation (1st Appointment)

For traditional bridges, we'll carefully reshape the adjacent anchor teeth to accommodate crowns. We'll take detailed impressions and place a temporary bridge to protect your teeth during fabrication.

3. Custom Bridge Fabrication (2-3 Weeks)

Our skilled dental lab creates your custom bridge using high-quality porcelain or zirconia, precisely matched to your natural teeth for seamless integration.

4. Bridge Placement and Final Adjustments (2nd Appointment)

We'll remove your temporary bridge and carefully fit your permanent bridge, making precise adjustments for optimal comfort, function, and bite alignment.

5. Follow-Up Care

We'll schedule follow-up visits to ensure your bridge is functioning properly and provide guidance on optimal care techniques.

Most dental bridges are completed in just 2 appointments over 2-3 weeks.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Choosing a dental bridge offers numerous advantages for your oral health and quality of life:

Immediate Restored Functionality

Chew your favorite foods and speak clearly again without worrying about gaps in your teeth or loose appliances.

Maintained Facial Structure

Bridges help maintain your facial shape by providing proper support for your lips and cheeks, preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth.

Better Bite Alignment

Maintain proper tooth alignment and prevent remaining teeth from shifting, which can cause bite problems and jaw pain.

Enhanced Appearance and Confidence

Enjoy a complete, beautiful smile that looks completely natural and boosts your self-esteem in social and professional situations.

Prevention of Future Dental Problems

Bridges help distribute bite force evenly, reducing excessive wear on remaining teeth and preventing bone loss in the jaw.

Long-Term Durability

With proper care, dental bridges typically last 10-15 years, providing excellent long-term value for your investment.

Cost and Insurance for Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are often the most cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth. At Gaston Dental, we make quality bridge treatment accessible and affordable:

Insurance Coverage

• Most dental insurance covers 50-80% of bridge treatment
• We accept all major insurance plans including Medicaid
• Our team handles pre-authorizations and maximizes your benefits
• Coverage varies by plan - we'll verify your specific benefits

Treatment Investment

• Traditional 3-unit bridge: $2,500-4,000
• Implant-supported bridge: $4,000-8,000
• Maryland bridge: $1,500-2,500
• Cantilever bridge: $2,000-3,500

Financing Options

• Affirm financing - Check eligibility with our QR code before your visit
• CareCredit and Sunbit payment plans available
• Extended payment plans for qualifying patients
• Cash discounts available for uninsured patients

New Patient Special: $99 exam and X-rays for cash patients plus 10% off treatments.

Call (704) 396-6166 for a personalized treatment estimate and insurance verification.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper maintenance can extend your bridge's lifespan to 15+ years and keep your smile healthy:

Daily Care Routine

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to the gum line
• Floss daily using floss threaders or water flossers to clean under the bridge
• Use antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and prevent gum disease
• Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge your bridge

Regular Professional Care

• Visit every 6 months for cleanings and bridge evaluation
• Professional deep cleaning under the bridge to prevent gum disease
• Regular X-rays to monitor the health of supporting teeth
• Prompt attention to any looseness or discomfort

Foods to Avoid

• Hard candies or ice that could crack porcelain
• Sticky foods like caramel that could pull on the bridge
• Popcorn kernels and hard nuts
• Using teeth as tools (opening packages, etc.)

When Dental Bridges May Not Be Suitable

While bridges are excellent for many patients, they may not be the best choice if you have:

• Insufficient healthy adjacent teeth for support
• Active gum disease that needs treatment first
• Significant bone loss in the area
• Poor oral hygiene habits that could compromise longevity
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) without a protective nightguard

In these cases, we may recommend dental implants, partial dentures, or addressing underlying issues before bridge placement.

Frequently Asked Questions