Dental Bridges in East Peoria, IL
A Reliable Solution for Replacing Missing Teeth
Missing a tooth doesn’t just impact your smile—it can affect your bite, speech, and long-term oral health. At East Peoria Dental Group, we offer custom dental bridges that restore the function and appearance of your smile with lasting results.
A dental bridge fills the gap left by a missing tooth by anchoring an artificial tooth (pontic) to the neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to decay, injury, or extraction, our team can help you reclaim a complete smile with a personalized bridge designed for comfort and aesthetics.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of:
- Pontic: The false tooth that replaces the missing one.
- Abutments: The natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap that support the bridge.
We offer several types of bridges depending on your specific case:
- Traditional Bridges: Anchored to adjacent natural teeth with dental crowns.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Attached to dental implants when no healthy teeth are available for support.
- Cantilever Bridges: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support.
- Maryland Bridges: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth.
The right type of bridge will depend on your oral health, number of missing teeth, and treatment goals. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through every option and explain how bridges can fit into a larger restorative or cosmetic dentistry plan.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Choosing a dental bridge offers both functional and cosmetic advantages:
- Restores your ability to chew and speak properly
- Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting out of place
- Maintains facial structure and jaw alignment
- Provides a long-term, fixed alternative to partial dentures
- Improves the appearance of your smile
A missing tooth can lead to jawbone deterioration, misaligned bites, and gaps that collect bacteria. By filling those spaces, bridges help prevent complications that could lead to more extensive treatments like implants or oral surgery.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your bridge procedure typically takes two visits:
- Initial Evaluation and Tooth Preparation
We’ll evaluate the area and prepare the abutment teeth if a traditional bridge is being used. Impressions are taken to create a custom-fit bridge. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the area. - Bridge Placement
At your next visit, your permanent bridge is adjusted for fit and cemented in place. We’ll ensure your bite is comfortable and provide instructions for care.
For patients choosing implant-supported bridges, we’ll coordinate the implant placement with our in-house specialists like Dr. Josh Hudson, who focuses on implant dentistry and restorative techniques.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of:
- Pontic: The false tooth that replaces the missing one.
- Abutments: The natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap that support the bridge.
We offer several types of bridges depending on your specific case:
- Traditional Bridges: Anchored to adjacent natural teeth with dental crowns.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Attached to dental implants when no healthy teeth are available for support.
- Cantilever Bridges: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support.
- Maryland Bridges: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth.
The right type of bridge will depend on your oral health, number of missing teeth, and treatment goals. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through every option and explain how bridges can fit into a larger restorative or cosmetic dentistry plan.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Choosing a dental bridge offers both functional and cosmetic advantages:
- Restores your ability to chew and speak properly
- Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting out of place
- Maintains facial structure and jaw alignment
- Provides a long-term, fixed alternative to partial dentures
- Improves the appearance of your smile
A missing tooth can lead to jawbone deterioration, misaligned bites, and gaps that collect bacteria. By filling those spaces, bridges help prevent complications that could lead to more extensive treatments like implants or oral surgery.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your bridge procedure typically takes two visits:
- Initial Evaluation and Tooth Preparation
We’ll evaluate the area and prepare the abutment teeth if a traditional bridge is being used. Impressions are taken to create a custom-fit bridge. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the area. - Bridge Placement
At your next visit, your permanent bridge is adjusted for fit and cemented in place. We’ll ensure your bite is comfortable and provide instructions for care.
For patients choosing implant-supported bridges, we’ll coordinate the implant placement with our in-house specialists like Dr. Josh Hudson, who focuses on implant dentistry and restorative techniques.
Who Is a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
You may be a good candidate for a dental bridge if:
- You are missing one or more teeth in the same area
- You have healthy natural teeth or implants to support the bridge
- You’re looking for a fixed (non-removable) alternative to partial dentures
- You’re in good oral health and free of untreated gum disease
If your adjacent teeth are weak or compromised, we may recommend a dental crown or dental implant as part of your treatment plan.
Meet Our Doctors
Our dental bridges are designed and placed by trusted providers Dr. John Zimdars and Dr. Josh Hudson—each known for their clinical precision and patient-first approach. Whether you're restoring a single missing tooth or planning a more comprehensive smile makeover, you'll receive expert care every step of the way.
Both doctors collaborate closely to offer personalized solutions that fit your smile goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Long-Term Maintenance & Care
With the right care, dental bridges can last over a decade. We recommend:
- Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing under the bridge using a threader or water flosser
- Attending routine dental cleanings and exams
- Avoiding very hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge
Preventive visits allow us to monitor your bridge and overall oral health. Our team also provides guidance on long-term care, including techniques to clean under the pontic and protect your investment.
Supporting Patients Across East Peoria & Beyond
Our conveniently located office at 1605 E Washington St makes it easy for patients in East Peoria, Peoria, Morton, Washington, Metamora, and Pekin to access expert dental care. We’re known for our compassionate team, clean and modern environment, and treatment plans designed to fit each patient's needs.
Want to see the results for yourself? Explore real outcomes in our Smile Gallery and hear stories from patients who’ve transformed their smiles with our help.
FAQs About Dental Bridges
How long does a dental bridge last?
Dental bridges can last 10–15 years or more with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
Are dental bridges removable?
No, dental bridges are fixed restorations. They are bonded or cemented in place and are not meant to be removed by the patient.
Do bridges feel like natural teeth?
Yes. Once placed, a well-fitted bridge should feel natural when you chew, speak, and smile.
What is the cost of a dental bridge?
The cost varies depending on the number of teeth being replaced, the type of bridge, and whether implants are involved. We provide detailed treatment plans and help you navigate insurance coverage during your consultation.
Restore Confidence in Your Smile with a Custom Dental Bridge
If you’re ready to replace a missing tooth and protect your long-term oral health, a custom dental bridge may be the ideal solution. At East Peoria Dental Group, we’re committed to restoring smiles with precision, care, and personalized attention.
