Restore you smile by replacing that missing tooth with a dental bridge.
Dental Bridges
You have a wide range of dentists who perform dental bridges near you and a range of dental bridge types to choose from. Neither decision is one to take lightly, as each can significantly impact your oral health, comfort, and confidence.
Each type of dental bridge available offers unique benefits and potential drawbacks.
Below, we’ll help you navigate these choices, by looking deep into what a dental bridge is, the types available, and their costs. We’ll also discuss the procedure of getting a dental bridge near you. Plus, we’ll provide tips on selecting the right dental professional for your needs.
Understanding Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a common dental restoration method dentists use to replace one or more missing teeth. The name “bridge” comes from its function — it bridges the gap where teeth are missing.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic that’s held in place by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. These abutment teeth can be natural teeth or dental implants, and the bridge is custom-made to blend in with your natural teeth.
It’s not just about aesthetics, though. Dental bridges also restore function, allowing you to chew and speak properly.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are four main types of available dental bridges near you, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.
Traditional bridges: These are the most common type. They involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between.
Cantilever bridges: Dentists use this style of bridge when you have adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
Maryland bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, this type involves a metal or porcelain framework bonded onto the backs of the adjacent teeth.
Implant-supported bridges: These are supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth. In most cases, the dentist installs one implant for every missing tooth, which holds the bridge in position.
Each type of bridge offers different benefits and your Mountain Dental dentist can help you decide which is best for you.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can cause a range of issues. It’s not just about the gap in your smile. When you’re missing a tooth, the remaining teeth can shift. This can lead to a bad bite and other dental problems.
A missing tooth also affects your jawbone. Without a tooth root to stimulate it, the jawbone can start to deteriorate, resulting in bone loss.
A dental bridge can prevent tooth-shifting issues, as it fills the gap and restores your smile. The implant-supported bridge can prevent bone loss because the implant stimulates the jawbone.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge near you involves several steps. It’s not a one-day process.
First, you’ll have a consultation with a dentist. They’ll assess your oral health and discuss your options. Then, the dentist will prepare your teeth for the bridge. This may involve reshaping the teeth that will support the bridge.
Initial Consultation
The first step is the initial consultation. This is where you discuss your needs and options with the dentist. They’ll examine your teeth and gums and may also take X-rays.
This consultation is crucial for planning the right treatment for you.
Preparation and Impressions
Next, the dentist prepares your teeth. This usually involves reshaping the teeth that will support the bridge. Then, they’ll take an impression of your teeth to use to create a model for the dental lab.
The lab uses this model to make your bridge.
Bridge Fabrication and Fitting
The dental lab will fabricate your bridge using the model and the dentist’s instructions. Once the bridge is ready, you’ll return to the dentist. The dentist will fit the bridge and check the bite.
Finally, they’ll cement the bridge in place, and your new smile is ready!
Cost and Financing of Dental Bridges Near You
The cost of a dental bridge can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the type of bridge you choose, the materials the dentist uses, the number of teeth you’re replacing, the dentist’s expertise, and the dental lab’s quality.
How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
The cost of a dental bridge near you can vary greatly depending on your specific situation.
Your Mountain Dental dentist will provide a detailed quote that includes all costs involved.
Insurance and Payment Options
Most dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost. Check with your provider or the Mountain Dental near you for specifics on your coverage.
Many dentists offer payment plans, which can make the cost more manageable. Mountain Dental is one of those offices with great financing options that allow you to spread the cost of a dental bridge across multiple payments.
Mountain Dental also accepts all major credit cards and Care Credit for even more financing options. Plus, our Essential Smile Plan dental membership can help reduce the cost of certain dental procedures by 20-50%.
Don’t let cost deter you from getting the treatment you need.
Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Dental Bridge
Choosing the right dentist is crucial when getting a dental bridge near you. It can make a big difference in your experience and results.
Look for a dentist with experience and a good track record with dental bridges. You should also consider the dentist’s approach to patient care. They should make you feel comfortable and informed.
Experience and Qualifications
Check the dentist’s qualifications. They should be well-trained in dental bridge procedures.
Look at their past work, such as before-and-after photos, to get an idea of their skills. Also, consider their years of experience because more experience often means better results.
At Mountain Dental, our dentists have extensive experience with dental bridges and are ready to deliver high-quality dental bridges near you.
Technology and Lab Quality
The technology the dentist uses is also important, as modern technology can lead to more precise results. The quality of the dental lab matters, too, as it affects your dental bridge’s fit and look.
Ask about the lab’s standards and the materials they use. High-quality materials can make your bridge last longer.
Aftercare and Maintenance of Dental Bridges
After getting a dental bridge, proper care is key. It helps prolong your bridge’s life.
Good oral hygiene is a must. It prevents issues like gum disease and tooth decay, and a well-maintained bridge can last many years.
Daily Care and Hygiene
Daily brushing and flossing are essential. They keep your bridge clean and your mouth healthy.
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush, which is gentle on your bridge and gums. Also, consider using a water flosser, which can clean hard-to-reach areas around your bridge.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are important too, as they allow your dentist to spot any issues early. During a checkup, they can also professionally clean your bridge to help keep it in top shape.
The dentists at Mountain Dental recommend getting a checkup and teeth cleaning at least once every six months.
Visit Mountain Dental to Get a Quality Dental Bridge Near You
Choosing the right dentist to perform a dental bridge is a significant decision. Getting the right, high-quality dental bride impacts your oral health, comfort, and confidence.
With the right information and a skilled dentist, you can make the best choice. Remember, a healthy smile is always worth the investment.
Google Reviews
elaine schwartzMay. 23, 2025
Best dental care in Albuquerque.
Allen LyonMay. 13, 2025
On time, friendly staff and they don't forget to let you know of upcoming appointments. The dentist was very gentle and thorough.
Kathy TruongMay. 7, 2025
Dr. Gallegos has been our family’s dentist for over a decade—caring for me, my husband, our son, our daughter, and my best friend. He’s always been so kind, funny, and genuinely caring. It never...
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CookeyMay. 7, 2025
Very friendly staff. They all make you feel welcomed and non-judgemental. Love this place.
Greg VickMay. 7, 2025
Professional, friendly and caring staff that put me at ease from check in to check out.
Inez EdgeMay. 6, 2025
It was a really good experience
elizabeth robinApr. 30, 2025
Friendly & professional. Just a wonderful group of people. 🧡
Gerald LewisApr. 30, 2025
Always friendly, knowledgeable concerning insurances and as painless as possible
Dr. Gallegos has been our family’s dentist for over a decade—caring for me, my husband, our son, our daughter, and my best friend. He’s always been so kind, funny, and genuinely caring. It never felt like just another appointment—he always made us feel comfortable, listened to, and truly remembered.
Right before our son left for college to play football, I was worried about making sure his teeth would be okay while he was away. Dr. Gallegos took the time to carefully go over everything and made sure he was in great shape before he left. That meant so much to me as a mom.
When Dr. Gallegos sold his practice, I was sad but wished him the best. I was happy when I heard from Endodontist he was practicing again. He was welcoming and remembered my whole family, and treated me with the same kindness I had always known.
His new office at North Coors Dental has such a peaceful, welcoming energy—it felt completely different in the best way. His assistant was absolutely lovely, and the front desk staff was warm and professional. The whole environment put me at ease from the moment I walked in.
Dr. Gallegos is not only an exceptional dentist—he is truly an exceptional person inside and out. I’m so thankful to be back in his care and can’t recommend him highly enough.
A big thank you to North Coors dental!