By Shahvar Hussain, Vista Dental
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental bridges in Skokie offer a time-tested, reliable solution. At Vista Dental’s Skokie location, we help patients restore their smiles with custom-fitted bridges that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Whether you’ve lost a tooth to decay, injury, or an extraction, a dental bridge can close the gap and protect your oral health for years to come.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that literally “bridges” the space left by a missing tooth (or teeth). It consists of one or more artificial teeth — called pontics — held in place by dental crowns anchored to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Once cemented, a bridge is permanent and does not come out like a denture.
What Types of Dental Bridges Are Available in Skokie?
Traditional Dental Bridge
The most common type. Two crowns are placed on the healthy teeth (called abutment teeth) on both sides of the gap, with a pontic suspended between them. This works well when healthy natural teeth are present on each side of the missing tooth.
Cantilever Bridge
Used when there is only one adjacent tooth available for support. Less common today but still appropriate in specific situations — typically toward the front of the mouth where bite forces are lower.
Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)
A conservative option that uses metal or porcelain wings bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth instead of crowns. Best suited for front teeth and patients who prefer not to have the surrounding teeth prepared for crowns.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Rather than relying on natural teeth for support, this bridge is anchored to dental implants. It’s ideal when multiple consecutive teeth are missing, or when the surrounding teeth are not healthy enough to serve as anchors. Implant-supported bridges are among the most stable and long-lasting options available. Learn more on our dental implants page.
Do You Need a Dental Bridge? Signs to Watch For
If you’ve recently had a tooth extracted or lost a tooth due to trauma, acting promptly is important. When a gap is left untreated:
- Neighboring teeth can shift toward the open space, causing misalignment
- The jawbone beneath the gap may shrink over time (bone resorption), especially without an implant
- Chewing becomes uneven, potentially stressing other teeth and the jaw joint
- Speech can be affected, particularly when front teeth are missing
- Self-confidence can suffer — many patients feel self-conscious about visible gaps
A dental bridge prevents these complications and restores full function. Visit our general dentistry page to learn about all the restorative options we offer at Vista Dental Skokie.
What Is the Dental Bridge Process?
Consultation and Planning
At your first visit, our Skokie dentists will examine the gap, assess the health of the surrounding teeth and gums, and take X-rays. We’ll discuss your goals and recommend the most appropriate bridge type. If gum disease or decay is present, those issues are addressed before bridge placement.
Tooth Preparation
For a traditional bridge, the two anchor teeth are gently reshaped to make room for the crowns. A precise impression (or digital scan) is taken and sent to the dental lab, where your custom bridge is fabricated. A temporary bridge protects the area while your permanent one is made — typically 2–3 weeks.
Bridge Placement
On your second visit, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is checked for fit, bite, and appearance. Once we’re satisfied with every detail, it’s cemented permanently into place.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
With proper care, dental bridges commonly last 10–15 years or longer. Good habits that extend the life of your bridge include:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Flossing under the bridge with a floss threader or water flosser to remove buildup beneath the pontic
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that could crack or dislodge the bridge
- Attending regular cleanings every six months so we can monitor the bridge and the supporting teeth
Why Choose Vista Dental for Dental Bridges in Skokie?
Our Skokie dental team has extensive experience placing and restoring dental bridges for patients throughout the North Shore area. We use high-quality, natural-looking porcelain materials and take the time to match the shade of your existing teeth precisely. Our priority is always a result that is both functional and beautiful.
We also understand that cost is a concern for many patients. Our team will verify your insurance coverage, explain what’s covered, and discuss flexible payment plans if needed — so you can move forward with confidence.
Visit us at 3602 W Touhy Ave, Skokie, IL 60076. Call 847-737-9702 to schedule your consultation, or book an appointment online. We welcome new patients and same-week appointments for those ready to restore their smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should feel little to no discomfort during treatment. Some tenderness in the gum tissue around the anchor teeth is normal for a few days after preparation. Over-the-counter pain relievers are typically sufficient for any post-procedure sensitivity.
How is a dental bridge different from a dental implant?
A dental bridge replaces the visible crown of a missing tooth but does not replace the root. An implant is placed into the jawbone, replacing both root and crown — and preventing bone loss beneath the gap. Implants are often considered the gold standard for single-tooth replacement, but bridges may be a better fit depending on bone health, budget, and how many teeth are missing. We’ll help you weigh the options at your consultation.
Can a dental bridge be repaired if it gets damaged?
Minor chips to the porcelain surface can sometimes be repaired in the office. If the bridge becomes loose or the underlying teeth develop problems, a more comprehensive repair or replacement may be needed. That’s why regular dental visits are important — we catch potential issues before they become emergencies.
Does insurance cover dental bridges in Skokie?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of bridge costs when the procedure is deemed restorative and medically necessary. Coverage percentages and annual maximums vary by plan. Our team will help you understand your benefits and find a payment approach that works for your budget.
