What Is a Fixed Dental Bridge?

A fixed dental bridge is a custom prosthetic designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored in place by dental crowns attached to neighboring teeth or implants. Unlike removable dentures, fixed bridges stay securely in place and are not taken out daily. At our New Hanover County dental office, we offer fixed dental bridges as a reliable and long-lasting solution to restore both function and appearance.

Traditional and Cantilever Bridges

Traditional dental bridges are supported by two dental crowns, one on each side of the gap, placed over healthy neighboring teeth. This is the most common type of bridge and provides reliable, natural-looking results.

Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the restoration. While still effective, these are less common due to the uneven force they place on the supporting tooth and are typically reserved for specific situations near the back of the mouth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

For greater strength and longevity, implant-supported bridges are anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are titanium posts placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. These provide a stable foundation for the bridge and eliminate the need to alter healthy neighboring teeth.

Implant-supported bridges are particularly beneficial when replacing three or more teeth or when surrounding teeth aren’t strong enough to support a traditional bridge. They offer superior function and help maintain the bone structure beneath the gums, which supports a more youthful facial appearance.

The Benefits of Fixed Bridges vs. Removable Partial Dentures

Fixed bridges provide significant advantages over removable partial dentures, especially regarding stability, appearance, and comfort. Many patients who have tried removable dentures find that a fixed solution gives them better long-term results and greater confidence.

Fixed bridges:

  • Stay securely in place without adhesives or clasps
  • Provide full chewing function and clearer speech
  • Blend naturally with surrounding teeth
  • Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap
  • Are easier to maintain than removable prosthetics

For patients who need to replace multiple teeth, we also offer advanced cosmetic denture solutions based on neuromuscular and cosmetic dental principles. These restorations do more than replace teeth—they help restore the structure and volume of the lower face, which can soften wrinkles and improve overall facial harmony. These prosthetics are carefully designed to support a youthful profile and a balanced bite.

Why Dental Implants Make Bridges Stronger

When it comes to durability, implant-supported bridges deliver exceptional stability and long-term performance. Dental implants fuse directly with the jawbone, functioning like natural tooth roots to anchor the bridge securely in place. This integration not only provides superior strength for biting and chewing, but also helps stimulate the surrounding bone to prevent resorption—one of the leading causes of sunken cheeks and premature facial aging. The result is a restoration that supports both oral function and facial structure over time.

Implants also preserve the health of your surrounding teeth. With traditional bridges, neighboring teeth must be reshaped and permanently altered to support crowns. Implant-supported bridges eliminate this need entirely, allowing your natural teeth to remain untouched while still achieving outstanding strength and stability. In many cases, advanced digital design and same-day crown technology can be used to create highly precise, natural-looking restorations with greater efficiency and comfort.

Key advantages of implant-supported bridges include:

  • Better bone preservation
  • Reduced risk of bridge failure
  • No stress on natural teeth
  • More natural feel and function

Dentures and Facial Rejuvenation Bridges

While removable dentures remain a viable option for some, today’s fixed prosthetics offer a more advanced and cosmetically pleasing alternative. At our office, we design full-arch restorations that don’t just replace teeth—they help rejuvenate your appearance.

Using principles of neuromuscular dentistry, we carefully assess jaw position, muscle balance, and facial support before designing your bridge or prosthetic. These considerations allow us to restore lost facial volume, support lips and cheeks, and create a more youthful appearance overall.

Our cosmetic denture and bridge options:

  • Improve facial profile and support
  • Address bite alignment for better comfort
  • Are designed to enhance natural beauty and symmetry

Who Makes a Good Candidate for a Fixed or Implant-Supported Bridge?

We evaluate each patient thoroughly to determine the best tooth replacement option based on your oral health, lifestyle, and goals. Fixed and implant-supported bridges may be ideal if you:

  • Are missing one or more teeth in the same area
  • Prefer a secure, non-removable prosthesis
  • Want to avoid removable partial dentures
  • Have healthy adjacent teeth or sufficient bone for implants
  • Seek a natural-looking solution that restores both function and appearance

Our comprehensive consultation includes digital imaging, bite analysis, and a thorough discussion of all your options.

The Treatment Process

Getting a fixed bridge involves a series of carefully planned steps to ensure long-term comfort, function, and stability. Every phase of treatment is guided by precision and patient-focused care.

  • Consultation and Imaging: We begin with a comprehensive evaluation using digital X-rays and scans to assess the area of tooth loss and determine the most effective treatment approach.
  • Tooth or Implant Preparation: If natural teeth will support the bridge, they are gently prepared for crowns. If implants are part of your plan, we coordinate precise placement and allow time for proper healing.
  • Temporary Bridge Placement: A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the area, preserve function, and maintain your appearance while the final restoration is created.
  • Final Restoration and Placement: Your permanent bridge is designed through our partner labs, then carefully placed, adjusted, and polished to ensure a secure, natural fit.
  • Follow-Up and Maintenance: We continue to monitor your bite and restoration over time and provide personalized home care guidance to help protect your results.

Why Choose Kuzma Advanced Dentistry

Along with their experienced team, Dr. Michael Kuzma and Dr. Hailey Kuzma combine restorative expertise, aesthetic precision, and advanced technology to provide fixed bridges that do more than replace teeth—they rebuild smiles.

Our patients benefit from:

  • In-depth smile planning with neuromuscular analysis
  • Digital scanning technology for precise mapping of the treatment area
  • A patient-centered approach with sedation options for comfort
  • Long-term results that restore confidence and oral health

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Fixed bridges are designed to restore your bite, often improving your ability to chew and speak clearly.

Not always. Some bridges can be supported by natural teeth. However, implant-supported bridges provide enhanced stability and jawbone preservation.

You can care for your bridge with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. We may recommend tools like floss threaders or water flossers for easier cleaning around the bridge.

Yes. Bridges and advanced prosthetics restore tooth structure and can support your cheeks and lips, helping maintain a youthful facial profile.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re missing one or more teeth and looking for a solution that combines strength, beauty, and facial support, a fixed or implant-supported bridge may be right for you. Contact Kuzma Advanced Dentistry in Wilmington at (910) 392-6060 to begin your personalized consultation.