Dental Bridges in San Diego
Restore Your Beautiful Smile with Custom Fixed Dental Bridges
Missing teeth can affect your confidence, speaking, and eating. Dr. Irene Olaes creates natural-looking dental bridges that permanently replace missing teeth and restore your smile's function and beauty.
Schedule Your Bridge ConsultationWhat Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Unlike removable partial dentures, bridges are permanently cemented to your existing teeth or dental implants, providing a stable and natural-feeling solution for tooth replacement.
Traditional bridges consist of crowns (called abutments) that fit over the teeth on either side of the gap, connected to replacement teeth (called pontics) that fill the missing space. Modern bridges are crafted from high-quality materials like porcelain or ceramic that match your natural teeth perfectly.
At Carmel Mountain Dentist, Dr. Olaes uses advanced digital technology and premium materials to create bridges that not only look natural but also function like your original teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Permanent Solution
Fixed bridges are permanently attached and don't require removal for cleaning, providing a stable, long-term tooth replacement solution.
Natural Appearance
Custom-crafted to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size, creating a seamless, beautiful smile.
Restore Chewing Function
Regain the ability to eat your favorite foods comfortably and efficiently without worrying about shifting or discomfort.
Improved Speech
Missing teeth can affect pronunciation. Bridges restore proper tongue placement for clear, confident speech.
Prevent Teeth Shifting
Fill gaps to prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position, maintaining proper bite alignment.
Maintain Facial Structure
Support facial muscles and prevent the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth.
Cost-Effective
More affordable than multiple individual implants while still providing excellent function and aesthetics.
Quick Treatment
Faster treatment timeline compared to dental implants, with most bridges completed in 2-3 appointments.
Boost Confidence
Restore your complete smile and regain the confidence to laugh, speak, and socialize without hesitation.
Durable Materials
Made from strong, biocompatible materials that can last 10-15 years or more with proper care.
The Dental Bridge Process
Initial Consultation & Examination
Dr. Olaes will examine your teeth, gums, and jawbone using digital X-rays and 3D imaging. She'll evaluate the health of adjacent teeth that will support the bridge and discuss your treatment options and goals.
CircleDot Preparation
The teeth adjacent to the gap (abutment teeth) are carefully prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. Local anesthetic ensures your comfort throughout this process.
Digital Impressions
Using advanced digital scanning technology, we create precise 3D impressions of your teeth. This eliminates the need for messy traditional impressions and ensures a perfect fit.
Temporary Bridge Placement
A temporary bridge is placed to protect your prepared teeth and maintain your smile's appearance while your custom bridge is being crafted in our partner dental laboratory.
Custom Bridge Creation
Your permanent bridge is carefully crafted by skilled technicians using premium materials that match your natural teeth in color, translucency, and texture for the most natural appearance.
Final Placement & Adjustment
At your final appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and your custom bridge is carefully fitted and adjusted for optimal comfort and function. Once perfect, it's permanently cemented in place.
Follow-Up & Care Instructions
Dr. Olaes will provide detailed care instructions and schedule follow-up visits to ensure your bridge is functioning perfectly and your oral health is maintained.
Who Needs Dental Bridges?
Missing One or More Consecutive Teeth
Ideal for patients with one to three missing teeth in a row who want a permanent, fixed replacement solution.
Healthy Adjacent Teeth
Best candidates have strong, healthy teeth on both sides of the gap that can support the bridge structure.
Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Patients committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits for long-term bridge success.
Want Faster Treatment
Patients who prefer a quicker treatment timeline compared to dental implants and want immediate results.
Adequate Bone Structure
Those who may not have sufficient bone density for dental implants but have healthy supporting teeth.
Cost-Conscious Patients
Individuals seeking an effective, more affordable alternative to multiple dental implants for tooth replacement.
Functional Concerns
Those experiencing difficulty chewing, speaking, or who are concerned about teeth shifting due to missing teeth.
Aesthetic Goals
Patients who want to restore their smile's appearance and regain confidence in social and professional situations.
Patient Testimonials
"Dr. Olaes created a beautiful bridge for my front teeth after an accident. The process was comfortable and the results are amazing - you can't even tell it's not my natural teeth! The staff in Carmel Mountain was so caring throughout the entire process."
- Sarah M., Rancho Bernardo
"I was missing two teeth and was embarrassed to smile. Dr. Olaes explained all my options and recommended a bridge. The treatment was faster than I expected and now I can eat all my favorite foods again. Highly recommend this practice!"
- Robert L., Scripps Ranch
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care and regular dental visits, dental bridges typically last 10-15 years or even longer. The longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, diet, teeth grinding habits, and the quality of materials used. Dr. Olaes uses premium materials and precise techniques to maximize your bridge's lifespan.
What's the difference between a bridge and dental implants?
Dental bridges rely on adjacent teeth for support and are fixed in place, while implants replace the tooth root with a titanium post. Bridges typically have a faster treatment time and lower initial cost, while implants preserve bone structure and don't affect neighboring teeth. Dr. Olaes will help you determine which option is best for your situation.
Will my bridge look natural?
Absolutely! Modern dental bridges are crafted from high-quality porcelain or ceramic materials that closely mimic natural tooth enamel in color, translucency, and texture. Dr. Olaes carefully matches the bridge to your existing teeth, ensuring a seamless, natural appearance that enhances your smile.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
Bridge care involves regular brushing and flossing, including special floss threaders or water flossers to clean under the bridge. Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings, avoid hard or sticky foods, and consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth. Proper care will help ensure your bridge lasts for many years.
What is the cost of dental bridges in San Diego?
The cost of dental bridges varies depending on the number of teeth being replaced, materials used, and complexity of your case. Traditional bridges typically range from $2,000-$5,000 per unit. We offer flexible payment options and will work with your insurance to maximize your benefits. Contact our office for a personalized treatment estimate.
Is the bridge procedure painful?
The bridge procedure is performed under local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. You may experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the anesthetic wears off, but this typically subsides within a few days. Dr. Olaes uses gentle techniques and can provide additional comfort measures if needed. Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes! Once you're accustomed to your new bridge (usually within a few days), you can eat most foods normally. Initially, stick to soft foods and gradually reintroduce harder items. Avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge. Your bridge will restore your chewing function significantly compared to having missing teeth.
Related Services
Dental Implants
Permanent tooth replacement that preserves jawbone and doesn't affect adjacent teeth.
Learn MoreDental Crowns
Custom caps that restore damaged teeth and are often used as bridge abutments.
Learn MoreReady to Restore Your Smile with Dental Bridges?
Don't let missing teeth affect your confidence and quality of life. Dr. Irene Olaes and our experienced team in Carmel Mountain are here to help you achieve a complete, beautiful smile with custom dental bridges.
Serving Carmel Mountain, Rancho Bernardo, Scripps Ranch, Poway, and surrounding San Diego communities