
Dental Bridges: Closing the Gap
A Reliable Solution for Missing Teeth and Confident Smiles.
Dental Bridges: Boost Your Confidence
At Coddington Dental, we understand the impact that missing teeth can have on your confidence and overall oral health. A dental bridge is a reliable and effective solution for many that is designed to restore your smile by filling the gaps left by missing teeth. Crafted from high-quality materials and tailored to match your existing natural teeth, our dental bridges not only enhance aesthetics but also improve functionality.

Is a dental bridge better than a dental crown?
A crown is just what it implies. It’s a “cap” for a tooth. A crown is often placed to help strengthen an existing tooth, therefore allowing you to maintain your natural tooth/teeth. If you’ve ever had a root canal, you more than likely had a crown placed after root canal therapy. A crown can also be used in completing cosmetic cases, too. Crowns are a great way to preserve natural tooth structure and maintain a beautiful, natural smile.
What about a dental bridge? What exactly is a bridge? When anyone thinks of a bridge, probably the most common thing that comes to mind is a bridge that you can drive your car on or a bridge you can walk over. A bridge, in simplified terms, can be defined as a structure that closes a gap between two pieces of land which could be over a river, a railroad, or maybe even a ravine. A bridge used on land is very similar to a dental bridge that is used in the mouth.
Curious about Dental Bridge versus Dental Implants? Let’s compare!
| Comparison: | Bridge | Implants |
| Basic Information to help you make an Informed Decision! | Used to bridge the gap created by missing teeth. | An excellent long-term solution to replace missing teeth. |
| Longevity: | 7 – 30 Years | Lifetime |
| Preservation of healthy adjacent teeth: | No | Yes |
| Transmission of force to: | Adjacent Teeth | Bone |
| Prevent bone loss & preserve the facial appearance: | Partially | Yes |
| A requirement for daily flossing: | Yes | Yes |
| Risk of developing cavities: | Yes | No |
| Accelerated loss of adjacent teeth: | Yes | No |
| The time needed to complete the procedure: | 2 – 3 Weeks | 3 – 6 Months |
Commonly Asked Questions about dental bridges
How many teeth can be on a bridge?
A bridge is made up of two natural-looking crowns one on each tooth on either side of the gap — these two anchoring teeth with crowns are called abutment teeth — and a false tooth in between called a cantilever crown. An excellent dental bridge that is properly fabricated, should have no more than three crowns connected together.
How do dental bridges work?
In short, a dental bridge can close the gap between adjacent teeth. For example, if a person has lost a tooth and has healthy teeth on either side of the space where the tooth has been lost, a bridge can be fabricated. Using a bridge to close a gap can be a great option. When using a bridge; however, the teeth on either side of the open space must be prepared as they will now be the area of support for your new bridge. A bridge may need future adjustments, and because there is no implant placed where the tooth was lost, bone is not preserved. While there may be a few things to consider before getting a bridge, do know that it is a great option and has been a “go-to” option in dentistry for many years.
When is a dental bridge a good choice?
There are clear benefits to dental bridges. This type of prosthesis (false replacement) can be fabricated within one to two weeks and provides normal shape, function (eating, talking and smiling), comfort, aesthetics, and health. A dental bridge can be a great option for certain teeth when patients do not have adequate bone, do not have active gum disease, or untreated cavities.
However, FPDs (dental bridges) can fail over time. If not well maintained, the dental bridge can act as reservoirs for bacteria and can develop cavities. As a result, the abutment teeth, or teeth supporting the bridge can become weak and cause the bridge to fail. The average life of a dental bridge is 7 years.
What can go wrong with a dental bridge? Common problems with a dental bridge explained by a dentist in Lincoln, NE.
Dental bridges are harder to clean and maintain than regular crowns and fillings. If a bridge does not fit properly or is not cleaned regularly, plaque and bacteria can enter and cause cavities underneath the bridge. When this happens, the whole bridge is compromised and needs to be replaced.
What is the cost estimate for dental bridges near me in Lincoln, NE area?
The cost estimate for bridges depends upon certain factors, the types of materials used, your dental insurance plan, and the dentist you see. If you are looking for a better estimate for dental work such as a bridge, consider coming to our affordable dental clinic in Lincoln, NE. Our dental clinic accepts all major insurances. In addition, our affordable dentists near me also offer dental payment plans with flexible payment options for patients.
If you do not have dental insurance, no problem! We offer dental payment plans to help make the treatment you deserve, even more affordable.
If you do have dental insurance, most plans cover about 50% of the cost of dental bridges. Schedule your appointment online 24/7 Come see what we have to offer. We gladly offer estimates for bridgework.
Do you need root canal treatment before a dental bridge?
Typically, teeth do not need a root canal prior to having a crown or a bridge placed. If a tooth has a deep cavity and the patient is experiencing a toothache, the tooth will most likely need a root canal before crown and bridgework.
Is it better to have a dental bridge versus an implant? Dental bridge vs implant: which option is better?
Every situation is different and some patients may not be a good candidate for one of the options. A dental bridge requires placing crowns on the two adjacent teeth next to the missing tooth. A set of three crowns is placed onto the prepared teeth with a floating crown attached in the middle that rests on the tissue in the area of the missing. Typically, a dental implant is a more permanent and lifelong option. It is also the strongest option, which most closely resembles a natural tooth.
What are the different types of dental bridges? Are you looking for metal-free or nickel-free bridges?
We offer the following materials for dental crowns and bridges, which are all biologically compatible and safe for our patients. Types of safe, durable, and compatible dental material we use are: Zirconia or Emax.
Are dental bridges good? What can go wrong with a dental bridge?
Dental bridges are good and make an excellent option for those looking to enhance the aesthetic appearance of their smile. One thing to remember is that for anyone who has a dental bridge, good oral hygiene is a must. A cavity can start under the bridge and the best way to preserve the bridge and give it a longer life is to floss under it daily.
What is a bonded dental bridge?
A bonded dental bridge is typically used to replace a missing tooth in less time. Generally, a bonded dental bridge will cost less than a porcelain bridge or an implant. Another name for a bonded bridge is the Maryland bridge. This type of bridge is commonly used as a temporary bridge as it can become loose easily. For a more permanent solution, it is better to use a porcelain fixed bridge.
Ultimately, it is always best to discuss any treatment options that could affect your oral and overall health with your dentist. Everyone is different, and because a bridge may be an excellent option for one patient, it does not mean it will be a good option for the next patient. Many factors are taken into consideration when making decisions regarding your oral health. Do also keep in mind that oral health can indeed affect overall health, so it’s critical that you fully understand all of your choices and their possible consequences.
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Nebraska Family Dentistry Has 7 Convenient Locations

Northeast Lincoln Family Dentistry
402-890-8000

South Lincoln Family Dentistry
402-413-7700

Preserve Family Dentistry
402-413-7000

Lincoln Family Dentistry
402-467-1000

NorthStar Dental
402-742-0000

Coddington Dental
402-438-5555

SouthPointe Dental
402-423-3333