Dental Bridges in Wenatchee, WA
At Wenatchee Dental Arts, we have been helping patients in Wenatchee and surrounding communities rebuild their smiles since 1993. As part of our restoration services, fixed dental bridges are a long-standing, reliable solution that Dr. John Divis, DDS, FAGD, uses to give patients results that look natural and hold up over time. Our approach is comprehensive and personal because you are not a number here, you are an individual.
What Is a Fixed Dental Bridge?
A fixed bridge is a non-removable prosthetic that fills the space left by a missing tooth or multiple consecutive teeth. It is made of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, anchored by dental crowns on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Those neighboring teeth, called abutment teeth, are prepared and fitted with crowns that hold the bridge securely in place. Because a fixed bridge is cemented into position, it functions much like your natural teeth — you eat, speak, and care for it just as you would the rest of your smile.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters
Tooth loss is more common than many people realize. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, adults between 20 and 64 have an average of 3.28 missing or decayed teeth, making tooth replacement an important part of maintaining long-term oral health. When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the jawbone underneath begins to deteriorate over time. The teeth surrounding the gap may shift out of position, leading to changes in your bite, extra wear on surrounding teeth, and joint strain over time. A fixed bridge helps preserve the structure of your mouth by filling the space before these changes take hold.
Fixed Bridge vs. Dental Implant vs. Partial Denture
A fixed bridge is a strong option for patients who want a permanent solution without undergoing implant surgery and who have healthy teeth on either side to serve as anchors. Dr. Divis will evaluate your overall oral health to help determine which restoration aligns best with your needs.
What to Expect During the Bridge Procedure
Most patients find the process straightforward and manageable with local anesthesia. In some cases, Dr. Divis may also recommend root canal therapy on an abutment tooth before placing the bridge, depending on the condition of that tooth.
Caring for Your Fixed Bridge
With good care, a fixed bridge may last many years. Daily brushing and flossing are essential, including cleaning under the pontic using a floss threader or interdental brush. Routine exams and cleanings allow us to monitor the bridge and surrounding teeth, catching any potential concerns early. Avoid habits that put excess pressure on the bridge, such as chewing ice or using your teeth to open packages.
Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation in Wenatchee
Dr. John Divis, DDS, FAGD, has been providing comprehensive dental care to patients in the Wenatchee area for over 30 years. At Wenatchee Dental Arts, every patient receives individualized attention. We take the time to understand your situation and walk you through your options clearly. We accept Delta Dental and Premera as in-network insurance providers and work with all other insurances as an out-of-network provider. CareCredit and Cherry financing are available for patients who need flexible payment options.
If you are ready to restore your smile with care you can count on, we invite you to request an appointment and take the first step toward a complete, healthy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges in Wenatchee
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care, a fixed bridge can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Longevity depends on oral hygiene habits, the health of the abutment teeth and surrounding bone, and whether the patient avoids habits that put excessive force on the bridge. Regular checkups allow us to monitor the bridge and catch any early signs of wear or secondary decay around the abutment teeth before they become significant problems.
Does insurance cover a dental bridge?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost for fixed bridges, typically under major restorative coverage. Coverage percentages and annual maximums vary by plan. We are in-network with Delta Dental and Premera and work with all other insurances as an out-of-network provider. Our team will help you understand your coverage before treatment begins so you know what to expect.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes. After a brief adjustment period, most patients eat normally with a fixed bridge. You should avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge. A fixed bridge is cemented in place and does not require removal for eating or cleaning, which is one of its advantages over removable partial dentures.
Should I get a bridge or a dental implant?
The right choice depends on your bone health, the condition of adjacent teeth, your timeline, and your budget. Dental implants do not require altering neighboring teeth and provide better long-term bone preservation, but they involve surgery and a multi-month healing process. Bridges can be completed in two visits without surgery, making them a good fit for patients who want a quicker fixed solution or who are not candidates for implants. Dr. Divis will evaluate your specific situation and walk you through both options honestly.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Because the pontic (artificial tooth) rests against the gumline and cannot be flossed around like a natural tooth, cleaning under the bridge requires a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to remove plaque and food debris from beneath the pontic. Standard flossing around the crown portions of the abutment teeth is also important. We will demonstrate the best technique for your specific bridge at your follow-up appointment.
Contact Us
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.