Traditional Dental Bridges in Yakima

Traditional bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) held in place by dental crowns cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the gap. These supporting teeth, called abutment teeth, are prepared by removing some enamel to accommodate the crowns.

While this often serves for many years, the load-bearing teeth may deteriorate after thousands of chewing cycles. In some cases, this leads to more missing teeth down the line.

🌉 Traditional Bridge

Best for: faster, non-surgical solution
  • Proven track record — used for decades
  • Typically completed in 2-3 visits
  • No surgery required
  • Lower initial cost
  • Good when adjacent teeth need crowns
  • Requires modification of healthy teeth
  • May need replacement every 5-15 years

⭐ Implant-Supported Bridge

Recommended: longest-lasting, most natural
  • Preserves natural teeth — no crowning needed
  • Prevents bone loss in the jaw
  • More stable and secure
  • Can last 20+ years or a lifetime
  • Easier to clean and maintain
  • Stronger biting and chewing force
  • Requires surgery and healing time

A Better Bridge: Implant-Supported

In many cases, adding dental implants offers a better alternative, eliminating stress from the chewing system. When carefully placed in the bone of empty spaces, they mimic the roots of teeth — bearing the load that natural teeth used to hold, sparing neighboring teeth from excessive forces.

In some cases, two implants may be used to build a bridge spanning from one solid titanium piece to another, giving you the most natural feeling tooth replacement possible in Yakima.

The Bridge Placement Process

For Traditional Bridges:

  • Consultation: Dr. Kezele examines your teeth, takes X-rays, and discusses your options
  • Preparation: Supporting teeth are shaped to receive crowns
  • Impressions: Detailed molds taken of your prepared teeth and bite
  • Temporary Bridge: Protects your teeth while the permanent bridge is made
  • Final Placement: Custom porcelain bridge checked for fit and permanently cemented

For Implant-Supported Bridges:

  • 3D Planning: Advanced imaging for precise implant placement planning
  • Surgery: Titanium implants placed in jawbone (outpatient procedure)
  • Healing: 3-6 months for implants to integrate with bone
  • Abutment Placement: Connecting pieces attached to implants
  • Final Bridge: Custom porcelain bridge secured to implants

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Leaving gaps in your smile isn't just a cosmetic concern. Missing teeth create real problems:

🦷 Shifting Teeth

Adjacent teeth drift into the gap, affecting your bite alignment.

🦴 Bone Loss

Jawbone deteriorates without tooth roots to stimulate it.

😟 Facial Changes

Loss of bone support can cause facial sagging over time.

🍎 Chewing Difficulty

Reduced ability to eat certain foods comfortably.

🗣️ Speech Problems

Gaps can affect pronunciation of certain sounds.

🦷 Cavity Risk

Shifted teeth create hard-to-clean areas prone to decay.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Use floss threaders or water flossers to clean under the bridge
  • Avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or hard candy
  • Don't use your teeth to open packages
  • Visit Dr. Kezele every six months for checkups and cleanings
  • Consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth

Is a Bridge Right for You?

Dr. Kezele evaluates your specific situation to recommend the best tooth replacement option for you in Yakima. We consider the number and location of missing teeth, health of adjacent teeth, jawbone quality, overall health, budget, and your long-term goals.

Whether you choose a traditional bridge or an implant-supported bridge, Dr. Kezele's goal is to restore your smile with a solution that looks natural, functions well, and lasts for years to come.