Dental Bridges in San Francisco
Seamlessly replace missing teeth and restore your smile's beauty, function, and confidence with precision-crafted dental bridges at Madderra Dental Spa.
Bridge the Gap to a Complete, Confident Smile
A missing tooth is more than a cosmetic concern — it can affect your ability to chew properly, cause adjacent teeth to shift out of alignment, alter your bite, and even lead to bone loss in the jaw over time. A dental bridge is a time-tested, reliable restorative solution that literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth, restoring both the appearance and function of your smile.
At Madderra Dental Spa, we craft custom dental bridges using the highest-quality porcelain and ceramic materials, meticulously shade-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. With Dr. Madderra's 34+ years of restorative expertise and our commitment to conservative, patient-centered care, you can trust that your bridge will be both beautiful and built to last. We take the time to ensure every restoration feels natural and comfortable from the very first day.
Our approach combines precision digital impressions, advanced materials science, and an artist's eye for detail. The result is a restoration that not only fills the gap but also supports the surrounding teeth, maintains your facial structure, and gives you the confidence to smile, speak, and eat without hesitation.
Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?
A dental bridge may be the ideal solution if you are experiencing any of the following:
- One or More Missing Teeth: You have a gap from one to three consecutive missing teeth with healthy teeth on either side to serve as anchors.
- Difficulty Chewing: Missing teeth make it hard to eat certain foods comfortably, affecting your nutrition and enjoyment of meals.
- Shifting Teeth: Adjacent teeth are beginning to drift into the empty space, threatening your bite alignment and overall dental health.
- Speech Changes: The gap is affecting your ability to pronounce certain words clearly and confidently.
- Non-Surgical Preference: You prefer a proven, non-surgical alternative to dental implants that delivers excellent results with less downtime.
- Self-Consciousness: You feel embarrassed about the visible gap in your smile and want a natural-looking, permanent restoration.
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
Not all bridges are the same. Dr. Madderra will recommend the type that best suits your specific clinical needs, aesthetic goals, and long-term oral health.
Traditional Bridge
The most common type, using crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth) to anchor the replacement tooth (pontic) in place. Ideal when you have strong, healthy natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth.
Cantilever Bridge
Similar to a traditional bridge, but the pontic is supported by a crown on only one side. This is used when there are healthy teeth on only one side of the gap, such as at the back of the mouth.
Maryland Bridge
A conservative alternative that uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth, requiring minimal preparation of the supporting teeth. Often used for front teeth where bite forces are lower.
The Madderra Approach: Precision-Crafted Bridges
With over three decades of restorative expertise, Dr. Madderra approaches every bridge with the precision of an engineer and the eye of an artist. Our process ensures a restoration that fits perfectly, looks completely natural, and provides lasting comfort and function.
Your Bridge Procedure: Step by Step
- 1
Comprehensive Consultation & Treatment Planning
Your journey begins with a thorough examination, including digital X-rays and a detailed assessment of the gap and surrounding teeth. Dr. Madderra will discuss your options, explain the recommended bridge type, and create a personalized treatment plan. We'll also take the time to answer all your questions and address any concerns.
- 2
Abutment Tooth Preparation
During your first treatment visit, the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the gap) are carefully prepared. A small amount of enamel is removed to create space for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. This is done under local anesthesia for your complete comfort. Precise digital impressions are then taken and sent to our dental laboratory.
- 3
Temporary Bridge Placement
While your permanent bridge is being custom-fabricated by our skilled dental laboratory, we place a comfortable temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance. This ensures you can smile, eat, and speak normally during the fabrication period, which typically takes one to two weeks.
- 4
Permanent Bridge Fitting & Cementation
When your custom bridge is ready, you'll return for the final fitting. Dr. Madderra meticulously checks the fit, bite alignment, and color match. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure the bridge feels completely natural and comfortable. Once everything is perfect, the bridge is permanently cemented into place, completing your smile transformation.
The Benefits of Choosing a Dental Bridge
Restore Your Smile
Fill the gap with a natural-looking replacement tooth that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth, giving you back the confidence to smile freely.
Prevent Tooth Shifting
A bridge keeps adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty space, preserving your bite alignment and preventing future orthodontic complications.
Quick & Non-Surgical
Unlike implants, bridges don't require surgery or lengthy healing periods. The entire process is typically completed in just two comfortable visits.
Long-Lasting Results
With proper care, a well-crafted dental bridge can last 10-15 years or more, providing a durable and reliable restoration for your smile.
Recovery & Long-Term Bridge Care
Adjusting to your new dental bridge is typically quick and straightforward. Most patients feel comfortable within a few days. To maximize the lifespan of your bridge and maintain optimal oral health, follow these guidelines:
- First Few Days: Stick to softer foods while you adjust to the feel of your new bridge. Mild sensitivity is normal and will subside quickly.
- Clean Under the Pontic: Use a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser daily to clean beneath the artificial tooth where bacteria can accumulate.
- Brush & Floss Regularly: Continue brushing twice daily and flossing the abutment teeth to prevent decay at the crown margins.
- Avoid Hard & Sticky Foods: Protect your bridge by avoiding chewing ice, hard candy, caramel, and other sticky or excessively hard foods.
- Regular Check-Ups: Visit our San Francisco office for routine cleanings and exams so we can monitor the health and integrity of your bridge.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Both bridges and implants are excellent solutions for missing teeth. The right choice depends on your unique clinical situation, preferences, and goals. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Dental Bridge | Dental Implant |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery Required | No | Yes (minor oral surgery) |
| Treatment Time | 2-3 weeks (2 visits) | 3-6 months (healing period) |
| Longevity | 10-15+ years | 20+ years (often lifetime) |
| Adjacent Teeth | Requires preparation of neighboring teeth | No effect on adjacent teeth |
| Bone Preservation | Does not prevent bone loss | Stimulates and preserves jawbone |
| Cost | Generally lower upfront cost | Higher initial investment |
What Our Patients Say
"The crown work was flawless. Perfect color match, comfortable fit, and completed in just two visits. You can't even tell which tooth has the crown!"
Robert H.
Dental Crowns
August 2025
"The crown looks and feels completely natural. Dr. Madderra is meticulous about fit and aesthetics. I forget which tooth has the crown!"
Michelle R.
Dental Crowns
June 2024
"After cracking a molar, I needed a crown quickly. The entire process was efficient and painless. The quality of work is outstanding."
Charles P.
Dental Crowns
May 2024
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
Related Services
Dental Implants
A permanent, surgical solution for missing teeth that replaces the tooth root and preserves jawbone health.
Learn More →Dental Crowns
Custom-crafted caps that restore strength, shape, and beauty to damaged or weakened teeth.
Learn More →Full Mouth Reconstruction
A comprehensive plan to rebuild and restore all teeth for patients with multiple complex dental needs.
Learn More →Ready to Bridge the Gap in Your Smile?
Don't let a missing tooth compromise your health or confidence. Contact Madderra Dental Spa today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Madderra or Dr. Holmann and discover if a dental bridge is the right choice for you.