Restore Your Smile with Dental Bridges in Cottonwood Heights UT

Tooth loss can happen for many reasons — whether due to dental procedures, accidents, or other unforeseen events. In the past, a missing tooth might have been something patients simply had to accept. Fortunately, with today’s advancements in dentistry, that’s no longer the case. One of the most effective solutions available is a dental bridge in Cottonwood Heights UT, offered right here at Van Leeuwen Dental.

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What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic designed to “bridge” the gap left by a missing tooth. It’s especially ideal when you have healthy teeth on either side of the space but are not a candidate for a dental implant — whether due to bone density, health conditions, or personal preference.

When left untreated, a missing tooth can cause more than just aesthetic concerns. It can interfere with your ability to chew and speak, and over time, neighboring teeth may begin to shift or tilt into the empty space. This can lead to bite misalignment, uneven wear, and even changes to your facial structure.

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How Dental Bridges Work in Cottonwood Heights UT

Dental bridges work by anchoring an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to the natural teeth (or crowns) on either side of the gap. To prepare for the bridge, the supporting teeth are gently reshaped to serve as strong foundations for the restoration.

The bridge itself appears as a natural row of three teeth — the two outer crowns fit securely over your reshaped teeth, and the middle tooth fills the gap. The result is a seamless restoration that looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth.

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High-Quality Materials, Superior Results

At Van Leeuwen Dental, we believe our patients deserve only the best. That’s why we craft our dental bridges using premium materials such as zirconia and EMAX, which offer exceptional durability, biocompatibility, and a lifelike appearance. In certain cases, we may also use porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) bridges when clinically appropriate, ensuring long-lasting strength and esthetics tailored to your needs.

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Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges to meet various clinical needs:

• Traditional Dental Bridge – Ideal when there are healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth; commonly used for side teeth.
• Cantilever Bridge – Used when only one adjacent tooth is available to support the bridge.
• Maryland Bonded Bridge – Often used for front teeth, this type uses a metal or ceramic framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth with minimal alteration.

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Caring for Your Bridge

Dental bridges are designed to be a long-term solution and require no special maintenance beyond good oral hygiene. With regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, your bridge can last for many years — keeping your smile healthy and confident.

Don’t let a missing tooth hold you back. If you’re not a candidate for a dental implant, a bridge may be the perfect option to restore your smile and function. Contact Van Leeuwen Dental in Cottonwood Heights, UT today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a custom dental bridge can benefit you.