Dental Bridges in Brookline, MA
Restore Your Smile. Rebuild Your Bite.
Missing teeth affect more than your appearance. They change the way you bite, the way you speak, and over time, the alignment of every remaining tooth in your mouth. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with a fixed, permanent restoration — restoring your ability to chew and speak properly, preventing neighboring teeth from drifting, and giving you a stable, natural-looking result you can rely on.
At Pleasant Dental Associates in Brookline, MA, our bridges are designed and placed by board-certified Prosthodontists — the recognized dental specialists in tooth replacement and restoration. Every bridge we create is crafted for stability, comfort, natural aesthetics, and long-term function.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that literally bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth — called pontics — held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap, or by dental implants. Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge is permanently cemented in place and functions like your natural teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
Traditional Tooth-Supported Bridge
The most common type of bridge. Two crowns are placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap — called abutment teeth — and the pontic (replacement tooth) is suspended between them. The bridge is cemented permanently in place. This is an excellent option when the adjacent teeth already have or need crowns, and when the patient prefers not to have implant surgery.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Instead of using natural teeth as anchors, implant-supported bridges are secured to dental implants placed in the jawbone. This is the most stable and conservative option because it does not require altering the adjacent healthy teeth. Implant-supported bridges also preserve jawbone by transmitting chewing forces directly into the bone — something a tooth-supported bridge cannot do.
Because our practice has both periodontists and prosthodontists in-house, the entire implant-supported bridge process — from surgical implant placement to final restoration design — is handled by our team without referrals.
Cantilever Bridge
Used in situations where there is only one adjacent tooth available to anchor the bridge rather than two. This approach is used selectively and in specific clinical situations where it is the most appropriate solution.
Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)
A more conservative option for replacing a single front tooth, where metal or ceramic wings bond to the backs of the adjacent teeth rather than requiring full crowns. This is appropriate in specific situations, particularly for younger patients or as a temporary solution while planning for an implant.
What to Expect: The Bridge Process
Step 1 — Comprehensive Evaluation
Your prosthodontist performs a thorough examination of the gap site, adjacent teeth, bite, and gum tissue. Digital X-rays and photographs are taken to plan the most appropriate type of bridge for your specific situation. If bone loss is present in the gap area, our periodontists assess whether any tissue management is needed before bridge placement.
Step 2 — Tooth Preparation (Traditional Bridge)
For a tooth-supported bridge, the abutment teeth on either side of the gap are gently reshaped to accommodate the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Local anesthesia ensures this is completely comfortable. A precise impression or digital scan is taken and sent to our dental laboratory.
Step 3 — Temporary Bridge
While your permanent bridge is being fabricated — typically 2–3 weeks — a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance and function.
Step 4 — Final Placement & Bite Adjustment
When your permanent bridge is ready, it is carefully checked for fit, color match, and bite alignment before being permanently cemented. Your prosthodontist makes precise bite adjustments to ensure even, comfortable contact with the opposing teeth. The result is a restoration that feels completely natural.
Tooth-Supported vs. Implant-Supported Bridge — Which Is Right for You?
Tooth-Supported
Implant-Supported
Surgery required
No
Yes — implant placement required
Adjacent teeth altered
Yes — crowns placed on both sides
No — adjacent teeth untouched
Bone preservation
No — bone loss continues under bridge
Yes — implant stimulates bone
Treatment time
2–3 weeks for final placement
3–6 months for implant to integrate
Lifespan
10–15 years on average
Can last a lifetime with proper care
Our prosthodontists will walk you through both options during your consultation, explain the pros and cons for your specific clinical situation, and help you make the decision that best fits your health, timeline, and goals.
Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters
It can be tempting to leave a missing tooth — especially one in the back of the mouth — without replacing it. But the consequences of doing nothing accumulate quickly:
The teeth on either side of the gap begin to tilt and drift toward the empty space, disrupting your bite
The tooth above or below the gap over-erupts (grows longer) into the empty space
Bone in the jaw begins to resorb at the site of the missing root
Chewing forces are redistributed unevenly, placing extra stress on remaining teeth
Over time, these changes can affect the entire bite and make future restoration more complex and costly
Replacing a missing tooth soon after extraction is almost always simpler and less expensive than waiting.
Why Choose Pleasant Dental Associates for Dental Bridges?
Board-certified Prosthodontists — the specialists whose entire training is dedicated to replacing and restoring teeth
In-house Periodontists ensure your gum and bone health is optimal before and after bridge placement
Implant-supported bridges designed and placed entirely in-house — no referrals needed
Digital impressions and laboratory-grade materials for precise fit and natural appearance
Dr. Yo-Wei Chen — Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, Tufts faculty, with research in digital dentistry and implant restorations
Dr. Ya-Ting Yu — dual-certified Periodontist and Prosthodontist, uniquely qualified to manage both the surgical and restorative aspects of your bridge
Frequently Asked Questions — Dental Bridges
Q: How long does a dental bridge last?
A: A well-maintained tooth-supported bridge typically lasts 10–15 years. Implant-supported bridges can last significantly longer — often decades or a lifetime — because the implant itself integrates with the bone and does not decay. Regular professional cleanings and good home care are essential to maximizing the lifespan of any bridge.
Q: Is a dental bridge or a dental implant better?
A: Both are excellent options and the best choice depends on your individual situation. Implants are generally considered the gold standard for replacing a single missing tooth because they preserve bone, do not affect adjacent teeth, and can last a lifetime. Bridges are a faster option, do not require surgery, and may be preferable when the adjacent teeth already need crowns. Our prosthodontists will help you weigh both options.
Q: How do I clean under a dental bridge?
A: Because the pontic (artificial tooth) sits against the gum rather than having a root, food and bacteria can accumulate underneath. We recommend using a floss threader, interdental brushes, or a water flosser to clean beneath the bridge daily. We will show you exactly how to clean your bridge at your delivery appointment.
Q: Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
A: Tooth preparation for a bridge is performed under local anesthesia and is completely comfortable during the procedure. Some sensitivity in the prepared teeth is normal for a few days afterward. Once the permanent bridge is placed, it should feel natural and comfortable with no ongoing sensitivity.
Q: Does dental insurance cover bridges?
A: Most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for dental bridges, typically under major restorative benefits. Coverage amounts and waiting periods vary by plan. Our team will review your specific benefits and provide a clear breakdown of costs before your treatment begins.
📅 Ready to Get Started?
Pleasant Dental Associates is now accepting new patients. $259 New Patient Special.
Call 617-975-3399 | 1318 Beacon Street Suite 20, Brookline, MA 02446
Book online: dental4.me/pleasantdental/1