Dental Bridges: How This Fixed Restoration Fills Gaps and Restores Your Smile

Missing teeth can do more than affect your appearance. Tooth loss can also make everyday activities like eating and speaking more difficult, and may impact your confidence over time. At Nest Dental in Burlingame, CA, Dr. Jennifer Chew offers personalized solutions like dental bridges to close the gap and restore both function and aesthetic balance to your smile. With a warm, patient-centered approach and the latest dental technology, we help patients feel confident and cared for every step of the way.

What Is a Dental Bridge and How Does It Work?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. It literally “bridges” the empty space, helping you regain a full, functional smile without the need for removable appliances. Here’s how a dental bridge restores your smile and overall oral health:

• Restores chewing and speech: Even a single missing tooth can make eating and speaking more challenging. A bridge helps normalize daily function.
• Prevents shifting of adjacent teeth: Gaps often cause neighboring teeth to drift, leading to misalignment. A bridge maintains proper spacing and bite balance.
• Improves facial symmetry: Missing teeth can give the face a sunken appearance, especially over time. A bridge can restore your natural contours.

The Different Types of Dental Bridges

Each patient’s dental needs are unique, and so are the options for bridges. At Nest Dental, we take time to understand your oral health goals before recommending the best solution. Common types of bridges include:

• Traditional Bridges: These are supported by dental crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap. They’re a reliable and long-lasting option for patients with strong surrounding teeth.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used when there’s only one adjacent tooth next to the missing space. Not suitable for all patients, but effective in specific cases.
• Maryland Bridges: Attach to the backs of neighboring teeth using metal or porcelain wings, making them a more conservative choice.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: Anchored by dental implants instead of natural teeth. This option is ideal for patients who are missing three, four, or more teeth in a row.

Each option comes with its own benefits, and Dr. Jennifer Chew will collaborate closely with you to determine what fits both your smile and your lifestyle.

What to Expect During the Treatment Process

Our calming, modern office in Burlingame is designed to make your visits as smooth and stress-free as possible. Getting a dental bridge usually involves at least two visits to Nest Dental, where precision is prioritized at every step.

• Consultation & Planning: We’ll begin with a thorough exam and digital imaging using our state-of-the-art technology. Dr. Chew will walk you through your treatment options and answer all your questions.
• Tooth Preparation: If using supporting natural teeth, they’ll be carefully reshaped to accommodate crowns. Impressions are taken for a custom fit.
• Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge may be placed while your permanent one is being crafted in our lab.
• Final Placement: Once your permanent bridge is ready, we’ll ensure it fits perfectly in both function and appearance before cementing it into place.

Our team understands many patients feel anxious about dental work, and we take extra time to ensure comfort, explain each step, and create a positive, reassuring experience.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

With the right home care and regular visits, your bridge can last many years. At Nest Dental, we don’t just restore smiles. We help patients preserve them, too! Dr. Chew and her team offer ongoing education and support to encourage healthy habits. Here are a few key tips for long-lasting results:

• Brush and floss daily: Pay special attention to the area beneath the bridge to prevent gum disease and decay near supporting teeth.
• Use special cleaning tools: Interdental brushes or floss threaders help clean underneath the bridge effectively.
• Avoid overly hard or sticky foods: These can damage the bridge or dislodge it prematurely.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Routine cleanings and exams help detect small issues before they become problems.

Our friendly team is always here to guide you, answer questions, and ensure your ongoing comfort and satisfaction with your restoration.

Restore Your Smile with a Dental Bridge in Burlingame

Ready to fill the gap in your smile with a stable, natural-looking solution? Contact Nest Dental in Burlingame to schedule your consultation with Dr. Jennifer Chew. Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or have been living with missing teeth for years, we’ll help you explore the best path forward with compassion and care. Call us today at (650) 692-5600 to take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.