The Whitmar Medical Dental Building - 16315 Whittier Blvd., Suite 203, Whittier, CA 90603Restore Your Smile After Tooth Loss
A missing tooth can affect your smile, chewing and the way your remaining teeth fit together. Dental bridges provide a fixed way to replace missing teeth and restore a more complete, functional smile.
At Marianne Tanios, DDS, we provide dental bridges in Whittier, California, for patients who want to replace a missing tooth without leaving a visible gap. During your consultation, our dentist will evaluate the missing tooth, surrounding teeth and your bite to determine whether a dental bridge is appropriate for you.
Missing a Tooth?
A dental bridge can replace a missing tooth and help restore comfortable chewing and a complete-looking smile. Call 562-943-0234 to schedule an evaluation.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace a missing tooth or, in some cases, several adjacent missing teeth. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, fills the space left by the missing tooth.
A traditional bridge is supported by crowns placed over the natural teeth next to the gap. Depending on the treatment plan, a bridge may also be supported by dental implants.
A dental bridge is designed to restore the appearance and function of your smile while helping keep the surrounding teeth in their proper positions.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Replacing a missing tooth can provide both functional and cosmetic benefits. A dental bridge may help:
- Replace a missing tooth
- Restore comfortable chewing
- Improve the appearance of your smile
- Help maintain the position of surrounding teeth
- Restore a more complete bite
- Improve confidence when smiling and speaking
Filling the space left by a missing tooth can also help prevent neighboring teeth from drifting into the open area.
When Is a Dental Bridge Recommended?
A dental bridge may be recommended when you are missing one or more teeth and the surrounding teeth or implants can provide adequate support.
Your dentist will evaluate:
- The location and number of missing teeth
- The condition of the surrounding teeth
- The health of your gums
- Your bite and chewing forces
- Your overall oral health
If the supporting teeth need treatment, that may need to be completed before the bridge is placed. Your dentist will explain the available options after examining your smile.
What to Expect When Getting a Dental Bridge
The process begins with an examination of the missing tooth area and the teeth that may support the bridge. X-rays or other diagnostic imaging may be used to evaluate your teeth and surrounding structures.
For a traditional bridge, the supporting teeth are prepared to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. Impressions or digital scans are then used to create a custom restoration.
A temporary bridge may be placed while the permanent bridge is being made. At the final appointment, the permanent bridge is checked for fit, appearance and bite before it is securely placed.
Your dental team will provide instructions for caring for your bridge and maintaining the health of the supporting teeth and gums.
Dental Bridge Results
The existing bridge treatment images and before-and-after examples on this page should remain in place.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Dental bridges and dental implants can both replace missing teeth, but they use different approaches.
A traditional bridge uses neighboring teeth to support a replacement tooth. A dental implant replaces the missing tooth root and can support an individual crown without relying on the adjacent teeth.
The best option depends on the location of the missing tooth, the condition of your surrounding teeth and gums, available bone and your treatment goals.
Learn more about dental implants.
Dental Bridges vs. Dentures
A dental bridge is fixed in place, while a partial denture is removable. A bridge may be appropriate when the teeth surrounding the missing space can provide adequate support.
A partial denture may be considered when several teeth are missing or when a fixed bridge is not the best option.
Your dentist can evaluate your smile and help you compare the available tooth replacement options.
Learn more about dentures and partials.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Good oral hygiene is important for maintaining your bridge and the natural teeth that support it. Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth as directed and maintain regular dental visits.
Your dental team can show you how to clean underneath and around the bridge so that plaque and food debris do not accumulate around the restoration.
Regular examinations also allow your dentist to monitor the bridge, supporting teeth and surrounding gums.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
The lifespan of a dental bridge varies based on factors such as oral hygiene, bite forces, the health of the supporting teeth and how well the restoration is maintained.
Regular brushing, cleaning between your teeth, professional cleanings and routine examinations can help protect your bridge and supporting teeth.
If your bridge feels loose, becomes damaged or your bite changes, contact our office so your dentist can evaluate it.
Experienced Dental Care in Whittier, California
Patients replacing missing teeth deserve careful planning and clear communication. Dr. Marianne Tanios received her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California and graduated in the top 10% of her dental class. She also completed a general practice residency at the Veteran Hospital Healthcare System in San Diego.
Dr. Marianne Tanios has served the Greater Los Angeles Area since 2007 and Whittier since 2017. She continues to pursue advanced education to stay current with developments in dentistry and is committed to providing comfortable, personalized care.
Dental Bridges in Whittier, California
If you are missing a tooth, a dental bridge may provide a fixed way to restore your smile and chewing function. Our team can evaluate the missing tooth and surrounding teeth and explain whether a bridge is appropriate for you.
Call 562-943-0234 to schedule a consultation for dental bridges in Whittier, California.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace a missing tooth or several adjacent missing teeth. A replacement tooth fills the space and is supported by neighboring teeth or dental implants.
Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?
A dental bridge may be appropriate when you are missing a tooth and the surrounding teeth or implants can provide adequate support. Your dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums and bite before recommending a bridge.
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
The number of teeth a bridge can replace depends on the location of the missing teeth and the condition of the supporting teeth or implants. Your dentist will determine which type of bridge is appropriate.
Does a dental bridge look natural?
A dental bridge is custom-made to fit your smile. The replacement teeth can be designed to complement the color, shape and appearance of your surrounding teeth.
How long does it take to get a dental bridge?
The treatment timeline varies depending on the type of bridge and your individual needs. Traditional bridges generally require preparation of the supporting teeth, impressions or scans, a temporary restoration and placement of the permanent bridge.
How do I care for a dental bridge?
Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth and underneath the bridge as directed and maintain regular dental visits. Good oral hygiene helps protect the bridge and supporting teeth.
How long does a dental bridge last?
The lifespan of a bridge varies depending on oral hygiene, bite forces, the condition of the supporting teeth and other factors. Proper care and regular dental visits can help extend its lifespan.
Is a dental bridge better than a dental implant?
Neither option is best for every patient. A bridge uses neighboring teeth or implants for support, while an implant replaces the missing tooth root. Your dentist can compare the options based on your oral health and treatment goals.
Can a dental bridge replace a front tooth?
Yes. A dental bridge can replace a missing front tooth when the surrounding teeth and overall oral health make a bridge appropriate. Your dentist can evaluate the area and discuss your options.
Do you offer dental bridges in Whittier, California?
Yes. Marianne Tanios, DDS provides dental bridges in Whittier, California, for patients who want to replace missing teeth and restore the function and appearance of their smiles.
Where can I find dental bridges near me?
If you are located in or near Whittier, California, Marianne Tanios, DDS offers dental bridges to replace missing teeth. Call 562-943-0234 to schedule an evaluation.
Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation
If you are ready to replace a missing tooth, call 562-943-0234 to schedule a consultation with our team.
