09/02/2026
🦷 **The Wednesday Dental Tip: Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?**
A dental bridge can replace a missing tooth—but it may not be the best choice for every patient.
In this week’s Wednesday Dental Tip, Dr. Zoe explains that the most common type is a **three-unit bridge**.
It includes:
👑 A crown placed on the tooth in front of the empty space
🦷 An artificial tooth that fills the space
👑 A crown placed on the tooth behind the empty space
These three connected units work like a traditional bridge, with the surrounding teeth serving as support.
However, a bridge requires the supporting teeth to be reshaped so the crowns can be placed over them. That is why Dr. Zoe may not recommend a bridge when the teeth surrounding the space are completely healthy and have never needed treatment.
Removing healthy tooth structure should be avoided whenever a more conservative option is available.
A dentist must also evaluate:
🦷 Whether there are teeth on both sides of the missing tooth
👑 The condition of the supporting teeth
🦴 The health of the surrounding bone and gums
🪥 Whether the patient can properly clean underneath the bridge
📋 The benefits and limitations of other replacement options
Proper maintenance is essential after a bridge is placed.
Plaque and bacteria can collect around the crowns and underneath the artificial tooth. Without regular cleaning, this may lead to:
🦠 Cavities around the supporting teeth
🔴 Gum inflammation
🦴 Bone loss underneath the bridge
⚠️ Failure of the supporting teeth or bridge
Even though there is no natural tooth underneath the middle portion of the bridge, the gums and bone in that area still need daily care.
The best treatment depends on the condition of your teeth, gums, bone, and the location of the missing tooth.
🎥 Watch Dr. Zoe explain how dental bridges work, when they may be recommended, and why proper cleaning is so important.
📞 Schedule your dental checkup with Dr. Zoe at Dental Group of Baltimore City
**(410) 685-0002**