
Published on Dec 22, 2025 | 5 minute read

A space in your smile can make chewing awkward and affect confidence. A dental bridge offers a time-tested way to replace a missing tooth (or a small span of teeth) by anchoring a lifelike replacement to the neighboring teeth. At Dolan Dental in Warminster, PA, we design bridges that blend seamlessly with your natural enamel and restore comfortable function—often in just a few visits.
A traditional bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap as supports. These abutment teeth receive protective crowns. Between them, we place a custom pontic—the replacement tooth—shaped and shaded to match your smile. Once bonded, the bridge becomes a single, integrated unit that restores your bite and keeps neighboring teeth from drifting into the space.
A bridge is a strong choice when:
If neighboring teeth are pristine and you want to avoid altering them, an implant may be discussed as an alternative. We’ll walk you through pros and cons for your unique situation.
Traditional Fixed Bridge: The most common style, supported by crowns on both sides of the space.
Cantilever Bridge: Anchored on one side only—used selectively when conditions allow.
Maryland (Bonded) Bridge: Uses a metal or ceramic “wing” bonded to the back of a supporting tooth; minimal prep but case-dependent.
We’ll choose the option that best supports strength, esthetics, and longevity.
Modern ceramics and advanced composites allow bridges that look remarkably natural. We consider translucency, surface texture, and the subtle gradations of color that real enamel shows. When esthetics are critical—like a front tooth—we may stage photos and discuss small details like edge shape and reflective highlights.
With excellent home care and routine visits, bridges often serve for many years. Their lifespan depends on gum health, bite forces, and how well plaque is controlled around the abutments. We’ll show you the easiest way to keep everything spotless in just a few minutes a day.
Bridge vs. Implant: A bridge may be faster and ideal when neighbors need crowns anyway. An implant preserves neighboring tooth structure and stimulates bone—great when adjacent teeth are healthy.
Bridge vs. Partial Denture: A bridge is fixed and low-maintenance compared to a removable partial; however, partials can be expanded if future tooth loss occurs. We’ll align the choice with your long-term plan.
Attention to detail—occlusion, esthetics, and tissue health—turns a good bridge into a great one. From shade matching to bite balancing, we work meticulously so the final result feels like it has always belonged.
Ready to close the gap comfortably and beautifully? Call Dolan Dental in Warminster at 267-961-5884 to Schedule a Consultation for a custom dental bridge.