A healthy smile plays a powerful role in your daily comfort and confidence. Teeth are essential for chewing food properly speaking clearly and maintaining facial structure. When one or more teeth are missing the change can impact far more than appearance. At Capitol Family Dental we help patients understand their restorative options and one of the most reliable and time tested solutions we provide is the dental bridge.

If you are missing a tooth or considering your treatment options this guide will walk you through what dental bridges are how they work and why they remain a trusted solution for restoring smiles in Milwaukee.

What Is a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a custom crafted restoration designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It fills the gap left by missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth between natural teeth on either side of the space. The artificial tooth is called a pontic and it is supported by crowns placed over the neighboring teeth. Once the bridge is secured it functions much like a natural tooth.

Modern dental bridges are created from durable materials that closely resemble natural enamel. At Capitol Family Dental bridges are designed with careful attention to detail so they match your natural tooth color shape and size for a seamless appearance.

Why Missing Teeth Should Be Replaced

Some people assume that a missing tooth is only a cosmetic issue especially if it is not visible when smiling. In reality missing teeth can lead to a chain reaction of oral health problems over time.

When a tooth is missing the surrounding teeth gradually begin to shift toward the open space. This can cause misalignment changes in the bite and uneven wear on remaining teeth. Over time these shifts may lead to jaw discomfort headaches or difficulty chewing.

The jawbone also relies on stimulation from teeth to remain strong. When a tooth is no longer present the bone beneath it can begin to shrink. This bone loss may affect facial shape and weaken support for nearby teeth.

Replacing missing teeth early helps prevent these changes and preserves overall oral stability.

Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges come in several forms depending on the location of the missing tooth and the health of surrounding teeth.

A traditional bridge is the most common option. It uses crowns placed on the teeth on both sides of the gap to hold the artificial tooth in place. This type offers excellent strength and durability.

A cantilever bridge is used when there is only one adjacent tooth available for support. This option is recommended in limited situations.

A Maryland bridge uses a metal or ceramic wing bonded to the backs of neighboring teeth. It is a more conservative option but works best in areas with lighter biting pressure.

An implant supported bridge uses dental implants instead of natural teeth to support the bridge. This option provides exceptional stability and helps preserve jawbone health.

Your dentist at Capitol Family Dental will help determine which option is best based on your oral health goals and individual needs.

The Dental Bridge Process

Receiving a dental bridge typically involves two or three appointments.

The first visit includes a comprehensive examination and imaging to assess the health of your teeth and gums. This allows your dentist to plan the bridge design and ensure the surrounding teeth can support it.

During the preparation visit the supporting teeth are gently shaped to allow room for the crowns. This process is comfortable and carefully performed. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the area while the permanent restoration is being crafted.

Once your custom bridge is ready you return for placement. The dentist checks fit appearance and bite alignment before permanently securing the bridge. Minor adjustments are made to ensure comfort and proper function.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer many advantages for patients who want a reliable tooth replacement option.

They restore the natural appearance of your smile and help you chew comfortably again. Bridges also improve speech clarity which may be affected by missing teeth. They prevent surrounding teeth from shifting and help maintain balanced bite alignment.

With good oral care a dental bridge can last many years making it a dependable long term solution.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care is essential to protecting your bridge and the teeth that support it. Daily brushing and flossing are important and special flossing tools may be recommended to clean beneath the pontic. Regular dental checkups and cleanings help ensure your bridge and gums remain healthy.

Is a Dental Bridge Right for You

Dental bridges are an excellent option for many patients but they are not the only solution. Some patients may benefit more from implants or partial dentures depending on their needs. At Capitol Family Dental we take time to discuss every option and guide patients toward the solution that best fits their lifestyle and oral health goals.



Replacing a missing tooth can improve comfort confidence and long term health. A dental bridge offers a dependable path toward a complete and functional smile.