A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. It is designed to fill the open space and help restore the appearance and function of your smile.
Bridges are often supported by teeth on either side of the space. These supporting teeth help hold the replacement tooth in place so you can chew and smile with more confidence.
The right tooth replacement option depends on your oral health, the location of the missing tooth, your bite, and the condition of the surrounding teeth. During your visit, Dr. Riggio will explain whether a bridge makes sense for your situation.
Replacing a missing tooth can help support:
Dr. Riggio may talk with you about a dental bridge if:
Bridge treatment starts with an evaluation of your teeth, gums, bite, and the area where the tooth is missing. Dr. Riggio will also look at the teeth near the space to determine whether they can support a bridge.
If a bridge is recommended, our team will explain the process, the expected timeline, and any other care that may be needed first. Some patients need gum care, treatment for nearby teeth, or additional restorative planning before moving forward.
Our goal is to make sure you understand the full plan before treatment begins, including how the bridge will function, how it will fit your smile, and how to care for it long term.
A dental bridge is one way to replace missing teeth, but it is not the only option. Depending on your needs, Dr. Riggio may also discuss dental implants, dentures, or another restorative approach.
A bridge may be a good fit for some patients because it is fixed in place and can restore a missing tooth without a removable appliance. Other patients may be better served by a different option based on their oral health, goals, or the number of teeth being replaced.
Dr. Riggio’s advanced training in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and complex restorative care helps him look at tooth replacement with the full smile in mind.
Patient Stories