A fixed, non removable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth without implant surgery.
At Dental Implants & Cosmetics, we present bridges and implants as the alternatives they are. You leave your consultation with a clear picture of both options, their trade offs, and a recommendation based on your clinical situation.
Serving patients from Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Weston, Sunrise, and across Broward County.
A fixed replacement
that does not come out
A porcelain bridge spans a gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth, or pontic, held in position by crowns on the adjacent teeth. The entire restoration is cemented in place and functions as a fixed replacement.
Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge stays in place at all times. It does not need to be removed for cleaning and does not shift during eating or speaking. For patients missing one or a few teeth who want a fixed result, a bridge is one of the primary options.
The trade off is that the adjacent teeth must be reshaped to support the bridge crowns. Whether this is acceptable depends largely on the condition of those teeth and whether they already need crowns for other reasons.
What to know
before choosing a bridge
A bridge addresses the gap and restores appearance and function. Understanding both what it offers and what it requires makes your decision a more informed one.
Fixed, non removable replacement
A porcelain bridge is cemented in place and functions like natural teeth. It does not require removal for cleaning and does not shift when you eat or speak.
Supported by adjacent teeth
A traditional bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap as anchors. These teeth are prepared and fitted with crowns that hold the artificial tooth in position.
No surgery required
Unlike dental implants, a traditional bridge does not involve implant surgery. For patients who are not implant candidates or prefer to avoid surgery, a bridge can be a practical alternative.
Restores appearance and function
A well designed porcelain bridge restores the appearance of the missing tooth and allows normal eating and speaking. Shade and shape are matched to adjacent natural teeth.
Requires preparation of adjacent teeth
To support the bridge, the neighboring teeth must be reshaped. This is a permanent change and is one of the most important considerations when choosing between a bridge and an implant.
Bone loss continues at the gap
A bridge replaces the visible tooth but does not replace the tooth root. Without a root or implant stimulating the bone, some bone loss at the extraction site is expected over time.
Two appointments,
one complete result
Most porcelain bridges are completed across two appointments. The first prepares the supporting teeth and captures the specifications for the laboratory. The second fits and cements the final restoration.
Evaluation and planning
We examine the gap, the adjacent teeth, and the underlying bone to determine whether a bridge is the most appropriate option. We review alternatives including implants honestly so you can make an informed decision.
Preparation of abutment teeth
The teeth on either side of the gap are reshaped to accommodate the crowns that will support the bridge. A digital scan or impression captures the prepared teeth and the gap for laboratory fabrication.
Temporary bridge placement
A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance and bite while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. We explain care and restrictions during this period.
Final fit and cementation
The permanent bridge is tried in, checked for fit, bite, and shade match, then permanently cemented. Adjustments are made at this appointment before you leave.
Long term care
Bridges require careful daily cleaning beneath the artificial tooth using floss threaders or interdental brushes. Routine professional cleanings support long term durability and allow us to monitor the supporting teeth.
Two ways to replace
a missing tooth
Surgery required
No
Adjacent teeth affected
Prepared and crowned
Bone preservation at gap
Bone loss continues over time
Timeline
2 appointments over 2 to 3 weeks
Longevity
10 to 15 or more years with care
Cleaning
Requires special flossing tools
Surgery required
Yes
Adjacent teeth affected
Not affected
Bone preservation at gap
Bone stimulated and preserved
Timeline
Several months including healing
Longevity
20 or more years with care
Cleaning
Cleaned like natural teeth
Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on the health of your neighboring teeth, bone levels, timeline, and goals. We review both honestly at your consultation.
Porcelain bridge questions,
answered clearly
Porcelain bridge in
Plantation, Florida
Located in Plantation, Florida, Dental Implants & Cosmetics serves patients from Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Weston, Sunrise, Coral Springs, and across Broward County. Restorative consultations are honest, unhurried, and focused on your clinical situation before any recommendation is made.
Your smile has a story.
Let's design
what comes next.
Begin with a private consultation designed to help you understand your options clearly and confidently with no pressure and no obligation.