Bridges in Rockwall, TX
Fill the gap and smile without thinking about it. A bridge replaces a missing tooth with one that looks and feels real.
★★★★★ 5.0 on Google · 375+ reviews · Dr. Chris Chakmakjian, DDS
Quick facts
Bridges at a glance
What it is
A false tooth held in place by the teeth on each side of the gap.
How many visits
Usually two. You wear a temporary bridge while yours is made.
Does it hurt?
We numb the area first. You feel pushing, not pain.
Why it matters
A gap lets your other teeth shift. That can change your bite and cause pain.
Is this right for you?
Signs a bridge could help
Talk to your dentist about a bridge if:
- You're missing a tooth, or a few in a row
- The teeth next to the gap are healthy and strong
- Chewing on that side feels hard
- Your teeth near the gap have started to shift
- You don't like how the gap looks
When something else may be better
If the teeth next to the gap are weak, or many teeth are missing, a different option may work better, like a dental implant. We'll look at your teeth and tell you what fits.
What to expect
4 simple steps
- Shape the side teethWe numb the area and shape the teeth next to the gap.
- Copy the shapeWe copy the exact shape of your teeth. A lab makes your bridge.
- Wear a temporaryA temporary bridge protects your teeth while you wait.
- Fit & bondWe try on your new bridge, adjust it, and bond it in place.
Bridges: the details
A dental bridge is a false tooth that fills the gap left by a missing tooth. A gap can hurt your dental health. It lets your teeth shift, which can change your bite and cause pain.
A bridge uses the two teeth next to the gap as anchors to hold a false tooth in place. Most of the time, crowns go over the teeth on each side. The false tooth, called a pontic, is joined between them.
Types of dental bridges
There are three common types:
- Traditional bridge. This is the most common type. Crowns go over the two teeth next to the gap and hold the false tooth. The false tooth is usually porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic.
- Cantilever bridge. This is used when there are teeth on only one side of the gap. It is usually used where you don't chew hard, like the front teeth.
- Resin-bonded bridge. Metal wings are bonded to the backs of the teeth next to the gap. They hold the false tooth. This is usually used for front teeth, where there is less force.
How it's done
A bridge takes at least two visits. At the first visit, three things happen. First, we shape the teeth next to the gap so the crowns fit. Second, we copy the exact shape of your teeth. A lab uses it to make your bridge. Third, you get a temporary bridge to protect your teeth while you wait.
At the second visit, we remove the temporary bridge. Then we fit and adjust your new bridge. Sometimes another visit is needed to fine-tune the fit.
FAQ
Common questions about bridges
Can I use my dental insurance?
Yes. Tell us your plan when you book. We check it for you before you come.
What if I don't have insurance?
No problem. Lots of our patients don't have it. We'll go over your options with you, including ways to pay over time. That way you can fix things now instead of waiting until they get worse.
How long does a bridge last?
With good care, a bridge can last many years. Brushing, cleaning under it, and regular checkups help.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Brush like normal. Use a floss threader or a water flosser to clean under the false tooth. We'll show you how.
Will it look natural?
Yes. We match the color of your bridge to your other teeth.
More cosmetic dentistry
Smile! You're in good hands with Dr. Chris and his team.
Make us your dentist in Rockwall, TX. We'll get you in as soon as we can.
Wed 10–5
Fri 8–12
Sat–Sun closed