A missing tooth doesn’t just leave an empty space—it can change how your teeth work together. Nearby teeth may start to drift, food may pack into the gap, and chewing can feel uneven on one side. If you want a solution that stays in place and helps you eat comfortably again, fixed bridges are a common and dependable option. Fixed bridges replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring a natural-looking replacement tooth to supporting teeth next door, creating a stable “bridge” across the space.
This guide explains what fixed bridges are, when they’re recommended, what the process looks like, and how to care for a bridge so it lasts.
What Fixed Bridges Are and How They Replace Missing Teeth
Fixed bridges are restorations that “bridge” a space where a tooth is missing. A bridge typically includes:
- Supporting teeth (often the teeth on either side of the gap) that hold the bridge in place
- One or more replacement teeth that fill the missing space
Because fixed bridges are attached to supporting teeth, they are not removed daily like a partial denture. Many patients like fixed bridges because they feel stable during chewing and can look very natural in the smile.
A key point is that fixed bridges depend on the strength and health of the supporting teeth. When those teeth are healthy and the bite is planned well, fixed bridges can be a strong, comfortable solution.
When Fixed Bridges Make Sense
There are several situations where fixed bridges may be recommended:
- You are missing a tooth and want a non-removable replacement
- The teeth next to the gap already need crowns, making them good candidates to support a bridge
- You want a quicker path to restoring chewing than some other options
- You prefer a fixed option and are not a candidate for implants, or you’re not ready for implant treatment
Your dentist will evaluate your gum health, your bite, and the condition of the neighboring teeth to determine whether fixed bridges are a good match.
You may need a different plan if:
- The supporting teeth are weak, heavily damaged, or have gum problems that need treatment first
- The gap is very long and would put too much pressure on the supporting teeth
- You have bite habits (like heavy grinding) that may require extra protection
The goal is to choose fixed bridges only when they can be supported comfortably for the long term.
The Fixed Bridges Process: What to Expect
Most people feel less anxious when they know what the appointment steps look like. While each case is unique, fixed bridges generally follow a clear plan.
Step 1: Consultation and Planning
Your dentist examines the missing-tooth area, evaluates the supporting teeth, and reviews imaging. Planning matters because the shape of fixed bridges must match your bite and be easy to clean.
Step 2: Preparing the Supporting Teeth
To support fixed bridges, the neighboring teeth are shaped so crowns can fit over them. This is done with thorough numbing for comfort. If there is old decay or failing fillings, those are addressed first to create a stable foundation.
Step 3: Impressions or Digital Scans
Detailed impressions or scans are taken so the lab can create fixed bridges that fit precisely. This step helps the bridge look natural and feel comfortable when you chew.
Step 4: Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and keep your smile functioning while the final bridge is made. Temporaries can feel slightly different, but they should not cause sharp pain. If your bite feels off, adjustments can be made.
Step 5: Final Placement and Bite Adjustment
When your final fixed bridges are ready, your dentist checks the fit and appearance, then bonds the bridge in place. The bite is carefully adjusted so chewing feels even. This step is important because a bridge that is slightly “high” can cause soreness or stress on supporting teeth.
Benefits of Fixed Bridges
Patients often choose fixed bridges because they restore function and help the mouth feel balanced again. Here are key benefits:
- Restored chewing comfort: Fixed bridges fill the gap so you can chew more evenly.
- Natural appearance: Modern fixed bridges can be made to blend with your teeth in shape and shade.
- No daily removal: Unlike removable options, fixed bridges stay in place.
- Better bite stability: Filling a space can reduce drifting and bite changes over time.
- Clearer speech for some patients: Missing teeth can affect certain sounds, and fixed bridges can help restore normal speech patterns.
- A predictable solution: For the right candidate, fixed bridges offer a dependable, time-tested approach.
Fixed Bridges vs. Dental Implants: Understanding the Difference
A common question is whether a bridge or an implant is “better.” The truth is that each can be excellent, depending on your situation.
Fixed bridges use neighboring teeth for support. This can be ideal when those teeth already need crowns or when you want a fixed solution without implant surgery. Dental implants replace the root in the missing-tooth area and do not rely on neighboring teeth, which some patients prefer.
A helpful way to think about it:
- Fixed bridges can be a great choice when the supporting teeth are strong and the gap is suitable for bridging.
- Implants can be a great choice when you want support that stands alone and you have the bone and health to heal predictably.
Your dentist can walk you through which option fits your mouth, timeline, and budget. The goal is a solution that feels comfortable and lasts.
How to Care for Fixed Bridges So They Last
Daily care is a big part of bridge success. Because fixed bridges connect teeth together, you’ll need to clean carefully around the bridge and under the replacement tooth area.
Tips for caring for fixed bridges:
- Brush twice daily, focusing on the gumline around the supporting teeth.
- Clean between teeth every day. Your dentist may recommend special flossing tools to clean under the bridge.
- Keep routine cleanings so plaque doesn’t build up around the bridge edges.
- Avoid chewing ice and very hard foods that can stress fixed bridges and natural teeth.
- If you grind or clench, ask about a nightguard to protect fixed bridges from excess pressure.
A bridge can’t get a cavity, but the supporting teeth can. Keeping the edges clean helps protect the teeth that hold fixed bridges in place.
What’s Normal After Getting Fixed Bridges?
It’s common to have mild sensitivity after the supporting teeth are prepared, especially to cold. This usually improves as the teeth settle and the final bridge is placed. It can also take a short period to adjust to the feel of fixed bridges, since the tongue and cheeks get used to the new shape.
You should call the office if:
- Your bite feels uneven or you hit the bridge first when chewing
- You have persistent pain that doesn’t improve
- You feel roughness, food trapping, or floss catching around the bridge
- Your gums around fixed bridges feel swollen or bleed frequently
Small adjustments can make a big difference in comfort.
Key Takeaways for Replacing Missing Teeth With Confidence
A missing tooth can affect the whole bite, not just the space you see. Fixed bridges offer a stable, natural-looking way to fill the gap and restore balanced chewing. When supporting teeth are healthy and the bridge is designed with a comfortable bite, fixed bridges can be a dependable solution for many years. The best results come from careful planning and consistent daily cleaning around fixed bridges.
Ready to see if fixed bridges are right for your smile? Contact Rockwell Dentistry at 732-242-4935 to schedule a consultation at 8 Tindall Rd., Middletown, NJ 07748 and get a personalized plan for replacing missing teeth with fixed bridges.
