Missing one or more teeth can make simple daily activities like chewing your favorite foods or speaking clearly feel frustrating and uncomfortable. Over time, empty gaps can also cause remaining teeth to shift out of alignment, leading to bite misalignments and increased risk of oral health issues. Fortunately, a custom dental bridge offers a durable, natural-looking solution to fill the gap and make your smile whole again.

    At 505 Dental Associates, led by Dr. Farzin Farokhzadeh, DDS, we specialize in high-quality fixed dental bridges tailored to your unique smile. Whether you need a traditional bridge supported by healthy neighboring teeth or an implant-supported restoration, our experienced team provides gentle, state-of-the-art care in a comfortable environment.

    Types of Bridges

    Dental bridges are specialized prosthetics designed to bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Depending on your oral health, the position of the missing tooth, and the strength of the adjacent teeth, our dentist may recommend several types of dental bridges:

    • Traditional Dental Bridges: The most common type of dental bridge consists of artificial teeth (pontics) anchored by dental crowns (caps) placed over the natural abutment teeth on both sides of the gap They are ideal when you have strong, healthy natural teeth on both sides of the missing space.
    • Cantilever Dental Bridges: Similar to a traditional bridge, a cantilever bridge is anchored by a crown attached to only one adjacent abutment tooth. This design is used when natural teeth are present on only one side of the space. Because they place extra stress on a single tooth, they are generally avoided in the back of the mouth where chewing forces are heaviest.
    • Maryland Dental Bridges (Resin-Bonded Bridges): Often used to replace front teeth, Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework with “wings” bonded to the back surfaces of neighboring teeth rather than placing full crowns over them. This conservative option preserves natural tooth structure, though it is not designed to withstand heavy chewing forces.
    • Implant-Supported Bridges: Instead of relying on natural teeth or crown caps for support, implant-supported bridges are secured directly onto titanium dental implants surgically anchored in the jawbone. This option is often used when replacing three or more consecutive missing teeth, offering maximum stability without placing strain on adjacent natural teeth.

    Dental Materials Used

    505 Dental Associates specialists use only modern dental bridges that are fabricated using high-quality materials. This allows to match the natural appearance, color, and strength of your natural teeth:

    • Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM): Combines the structural strength of a metal base with the realistic look of an outer porcelain layer. PFM offers strong support for both front and back teeth.
    • All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain: Provides superior aesthetics and a natural, translucent shade match, making it an excellent choice for front teeth restorations.
    • Zirconia: An advanced ceramic material known for its exceptional durability, fracture resistance, and ability to handle high biting pressures. Zirconia bridges are long-lasting and blend seamlessly with natural tooth structure.
    • Gold or Metal Alloys: Exceptional in terms of durability and wear resistance, metal or gold alloys are sometimes chosen for back molars where visibility is minimal and chewing strength is essential.

    Am I a Candidate for Dental Bridges?

    You may be a good candidate for a dental bridge if you meet these criteria:

    • Missing Teeth: You are missing one or more consecutive teeth in a row.
    • Healthy Adjacent Teeth: You have strong, healthy natural teeth or sufficient jawbone density for dental implants on one or both sides of the gap to anchor the prosthetic.
    • Good Oral and Overall Health: Your gums and surrounding teeth must be healthy. No active gum disease, decay, or untreated infections. Any existing issues must be resolved before bridge placement.
    • Good Bone Structure: Sufficient jawbone structure is required to properly support abutment teeth or dental implants.

    What Our Patients Say

    I have been a patient with 505/ CitySmile for more than 3 years. It’s been a journey but after a bridge, 2 crowns, dental implants and several root canals, my oral health is in tip top shape. Thank you to all the amazing doctors and assistants who patiently worked with me and the awesome staff in reception. Special shout out to Ms. Lisa, who is truly a gem! She runs that front desk and went above and beyond for me on more than one occasion! Give that woman a raise!!!! Thank you ♥️
    Ken S
    Google Review
    The service was amazing I saw doctor Juan he was very kind and friendly. The people at the front desk are also very friendly and approachable and help you set up following appointments. Thank you to Ms. Lisa and everyone else at the front.
    Tioluwani Olatunji
    Google Review
    Came in today for my second appointment of the year. It wasn’t too busy so I got to come in earlier entire team is kind and speedy. Lisa is always welcoming.
    Jaleyah Jones
    Google Review

    How to Prepare for The Procedure

    Your preparation for a dental bridge will depend on the type of restoration and may involve a structured multi-step process:

    • Initial Consultation and Examination: Our dentist will evaluate your oral health, review x-rays, and determine the best bridge type and material for your needs.
    • Abutment Tooth Preparation: For traditional or cantilever bridges, the dentist will apply a local anesthesia, and reshape the supporting adjacent teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to allow room for the crown caps.
    • Dental Impressions: Detailed impressions or digital 3D scans of your teeth are captured to custom-craft a bridge that precisely matches your bite and tooth contours.
    • Temporary Bridge Placement: Our dentist will place temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth and gums while your custom bridge is fabricated in a dental laboratory (usually taking 2 to 4 weeks).
    • Final Fitting and Cementation: Once the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary bridge is removed. The dentist checks the fit, alignment, and bite before permanently bonding the bridge in place.

    Note on Implant-Supported Bridges: If the dentist will choose an implant-supported bridge, he will preform implant placement first, followed by a healing period of 3 to 6 months for bone fusion (osseointegration) before attaching the final bridge.

    Dental Bridge Treatment Steps

    Treatment is typically completed in two visits. During the first appointment, the supporting teeth are prepared and impressions are taken to create a custom crown to go over your natural teeth. A temporary bridge is placed while the final bridge is being fabricated. At the second visit, the permanent bridge is secured and adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit and proper function.

    During the second visit, one of our highly rated dentists places the permanent bridge and carefully checks the fit, bite, and overall comfort. In some cases, the bridge can be permanently cemented during the same appointment, while in others, a short adjustment period may be recommended to ensure the restoration fits properly before final placement.

    For patients with busy schedules, working with our dentist who is open on Saturday can make completing treatment more convenient without having to take time away from work or other responsibilities.

    How Long Does it Take and is it Painful?

    You should expect the procedure to take up to an hour and a half per visit. If weekday appointments are not convenient, we offer weekend availability, including Sunday dentist appointments in NYC for added flexibility. The treatment is generally comfortable, as the dentist numbs the area before beginning. After the first visit, some mild soreness may occur since a small amount of enamel is adjusted to prepare the teeth for the bridge.

    Like most dental restorations, bridges are not permanent and typically last around 10 to 15 years with proper care. If you ever notice discomfort or issues with your bridge, it’s important to contact your dentist promptly. In urgent situations over the weekend, one of our dentists is always available to see you.

    Dental Bridge Maintenance and Care

    With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality dental bridge can last between 5 to 15 years or longer. To maintain your bridge and protect your supporting natural teeth and gums, follow these guidelines:

    • Brush Regularly: Clean your teeth at least twice daily using a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
    • Clean Beneath the Bridge: Use threader floss, super-floss, or interproximal micro-brushes daily to clean underneath the false tooth (pontic) and around the gumline where food debris and plaque collect.
    • Avoid Excessive Force: Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, fingernails, pens, or overly sticky foods that could chip, crack, or loosen the dental ceramic or cement.
    • Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Visit the dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings and routine evaluations to ensure the bridge and supporting abutment teeth remain healthy.

    Why Bronx Patients Choosee 505 Dental Associates

    • Proven Excellence: Over 40,000 patients served with a 4.7-star rating across 2,000+ Google reviews.
    • Two Convenient Bronx Locations: Fully equipped offices on Claremont Parkway (West Bronx) and in Co-op City (East Bronx).
    • Flexible Weekend & Sunday Hours: Convenient Saturday and Sunday appointments to accommodate your busy work and family schedule.
    • Bilingual Care: Full English and Spanish-speaking staff to serve our community.

    Recovery Time Is Minimal

    Make sure to keep your follow-up appointments and speak to your dentist about pain, if there is any. You may have some sensitivity after your initial visit. Your dentist may offer you toothpaste for sensitive teeth to help you recover and return to eating normally. If you’re wondering how long a dental bridge lasts, understand that taking care of it makes it last longer.

    Once your bridge is on, make sure you’re brushing and flossing regularly. Proper care of your teeth extends the life of the bridge. Since dental bridges aren’t cheap, taking care of your mouth extends the life of a bridge, giving you a smile that lasts.

    FAQ-s

    Does insurance cover bridges?

    Yes, most dental insurance plans cover dental bridges, typically categorizing them as a “major” restorative procedure. Insurance plans often cover up to 50% of the cost of the bridge, though coverage depends on your specific provider, annual maximums, and policy waiting periods. In contrast, dental implants are less frequently or only partially covered by basic dental plans.

    At our practice, we accept most dental insurance plans to help make your restorative care as affordable and seamless as possible. You can learn more about supported plans and coverage options on our Dental Insurance page. We also encourage you to request a pre-treatment estimate with our team so we can help verify your benefits and calculate any out-of-pocket costs prior to your procedure.

    How long does it take for a dental bridge to stop hurting?

    Mild soreness or temperature sensitivity around the gums and supporting anchor teeth typically subsides within 3 to 7 days after placement. It generally takes 1 to 2 weeks for your teeth, gums, and bite to fully adjust to the new prosthetic.

    Over-the-counter pain relievers and salt-water rinses can help ease discomfort during the initial healing phase. If pain persists past two weeks, worsens, or hurts specifically when you bite down, visit our dentist to check if a minor bite adjustment is needed.

    What is better, a bridge or an implant?

    Neither option is universally “better”. The right choice depends on your oral health, budget, and treatment goals:

    • Dental Implants are considered the gold standard for replacing single missing teeth because they do not require reshaping adjacent healthy teeth and help preserve natural jawbone density. They are highly durable, easy to clean, and can last a lifetime with proper care.
    • Dental Bridges are often the better option if you need a faster, non-surgical treatment timeline, if the adjacent teeth already require crowns or extensive restorations, or if upfront cost and insurance coverage are major priorities.

    Our dentist can evaluate your jawbone structure, surrounding teeth, and health history to determine which restoration offers the best long-term outcome for your smile.

    If you have questions about our dental bridge procedure in the Bronx, NY, our team is here to help. For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation with an experienced bridge dentist, contact our dental center to discuss your options. We accept most dental insurance plans and can assist you in understanding your coverage for dental bridge treatment. Our Co-op City and Claremont dentist provides dental bridge services designed to restore your smile and improve overall oral function.