Dental bridges in North Raleigh
Replace missing teeth with stability and balance
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth in a row. Dr. Abigail Scanlan evaluates the health of the neighboring teeth, available support, bite forces, and long-term maintenance before recommending the design that best fits your mouth.
Request a Bridge Evaluation
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth, called pontics, to neighboring teeth or dental implants. Because the restoration remains fixed in place, it can restore a more complete chewing surface and help maintain the alignment of the surrounding teeth.
The right bridge depends on where the gap is located, how many teeth are missing, the condition of nearby teeth and gums, the amount of structural support available, and the forces placed on that part of your bite. Dr. Scanlan considers those details together before recommending treatment.
Why This Service Matters
Restorative care should solve the current problem while protecting healthy tooth structure and supporting dependable long-term function.
Restore Everyday Function
Replacing a missing tooth can improve chewing and help distribute bite forces more evenly across the mouth.
Protect the Surrounding Teeth
A carefully planned bridge can help keep neighboring teeth from drifting into an open space and changing the bite.
Plan for Long-Term Support
The design must account for the health of supporting teeth or implants, daily cleaning, durability, and future maintenance.
Restoration Options
The appropriate design depends on the amount of healthy tooth structure, available support, bite forces, appearance, maintenance, and long-term outlook.
Tooth-Supported Fixed Bridges
Traditional, cantilever, and Maryland-style bridges use neighboring teeth for support in different ways. The location of the gap and strength of the available support determine whether one of these designs is appropriate.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Dental implants can support a bridge without relying on natural teeth at both ends of the gap. Implant placement is coordinated with a specialist before Dr. Scanlan completes the restorative phase.
Removable Tooth Replacement
A removable bridge, often called a partial denture, may be considered when a fixed bridge is not the best fit. We compare stability, maintenance, cost, and the condition of the remaining teeth.
How We Provide This Service
We explain the purpose of each step and confirm the plan before treatment begins.
1) Evaluate the Gap
Dr. Scanlan examines the missing-tooth area, supporting teeth, gums, bite, and appropriate dental images.
2) Prepare and Record
For a tooth-supported bridge, the supporting teeth are prepared and detailed records are made for the dental laboratory.
3) Wear the Temporary
A temporary bridge protects the prepared teeth and maintains appearance and function while the final restoration is made.
4) Seat the Bridge
The final bridge is evaluated for fit, appearance, and bite before it is bonded or cemented in place.
What to Expect from Bridge Treatment
Traditional and cantilever bridges are commonly completed in two visits. At the first visit, the supporting teeth are prepared, impressions or other records are taken, and a temporary restoration is placed. At the second visit, the final bridge is checked carefully before placement.
Implant-supported bridges require additional healing time because implant placement occurs before the restorative phase. Our office remains part of the coordinated care process and completes the bridge after the specialist confirms that the implants are ready to restore.
Care Between Visits
Daily cleaning and timely follow-up help protect the restoration and the natural teeth that support it.
Clean Beneath the Bridge
Use a floss threader, small interproximal brush, or another recommended tool to clean beneath the replacement tooth every day.
Protect Supporting Teeth
Brush carefully along the margins and keep regular examinations so the teeth or implants supporting the bridge can be monitored.
Report Changes Promptly
Contact us if the bridge feels loose, the bite changes, food begins catching, or you notice discomfort around a supporting tooth.
Related Care
Use these pages to compare connected services and understand where each option fits.
Dental Crowns
Explore Dental Crowns →Implant Restorations
Explore Implant Restorations →Dentures
Explore Dentures →Frequently Asked Questions
Open any question for an answer from the current Scanlan Family Dentistry service page.
How long do dental bridges last?
With consistent home care and regular dental visits, bridges can last many years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, and the health of the supporting teeth or implants.
Can a bridge be repaired or replaced?
If a bridge becomes damaged or shows signs of wear, it may be repaired in some cases. If not, it can be removed and replaced with a new restoration.
How do I clean around a bridge?
Daily brushing and flossing are essential. Cleaning underneath the artificial tooth using floss threaders or small interproximal brushes helps protect the supporting teeth and gums.
Will a bridge look natural?
Yes. Bridges are custom-designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
Does insurance typically cover bridges?
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for bridges when they are medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan, and we review benefits before treatment so you understand your options.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by connecting artificial teeth to neighboring teeth or dental implants for support.
How many teeth can a bridge replace?
Most bridges replace one to three missing teeth in a row. In certain cases, a bridge can replace up to five teeth, provided there is adequate support.
How long does it take to complete a bridge?
Traditional bridges are typically completed in two visits. The first appointment prepares the supporting teeth and places a temporary restoration. The second visit seats the final bridge. Implant-supported bridges require additional time if implants must heal before restoration.
Is getting a bridge painful?
Local anesthesia helps keep you comfortable during bridge treatment. Mild sensitivity may occur afterward and is often temporary. Tell us about discomfort so we can assess it and discuss appropriate support.
How is a bridge different from a dental implant?
A traditional bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support. A dental implant replaces the missing tooth root and supports a crown or bridge independently. The best option depends on the condition of adjacent teeth and overall oral health. Dental implants, and associated implant supported bridges, are more costly. Our tooth replacement guide compares bridges and implant restorations, including support, healing time, and maintenance.
A Clearer Restorative Plan
Replacing a missing tooth begins with understanding the gap, the available support, and the long-term care each option requires. We will explain the findings and help you compare appropriate ways to restore comfort and function.
Request a Bridge EvaluationLet’s Plan Your Visit
Tell us a little about the visit you need. Our care team will answer your questions and help you schedule with Dr. Scanlan. If a tooth is hurting or your concern is urgent, please call the office.