Porcelain Fixed Bridges in Newton & Boston

A porcelain fixed bridge placed at Smolyar Dental in Newton, MA typically lasts 10 to 15 years with proper care. Longevity depends on oral hygiene — especially thorough cleaning beneath the pontic — biting habits, and whether the patient grinds their teeth. Regular checkups at our Newton, MA practice allow Dr. Smolyar to monitor bridge margins and abutment teeth over time.

Both are excellent options for replacing missing teeth, and the better choice depends on your specific situation. Implants replace the tooth root and preserve jawbone, making them the gold standard for long-term tooth replacement. Bridges are a reliable, non-surgical alternative with a shorter treatment timeline. For patients who want to avoid surgery or who have contraindications to implants, a bridge is a well-proven solution. Dr. Smolyar will give you an honest comparison at your Newton, MA consultation.

Cleaning under the pontic (artificial tooth) of a bridge requires special technique since a toothbrush cannot reach beneath it. Floss threaders or interdental brushes allow you to pass floss beneath the pontic and clean along the gum surface under the bridge. Water flossers are also highly effective. Dr. Smolyar’s team will demonstrate proper bridge hygiene technique at your placement appointment.

Yes — the abutment teeth on either side of the gap must be prepared (reduced in size) to receive the bridge crowns. This is one reason Dr. Smolyar discusses implants as an alternative for appropriate candidates — implants do not require alteration of adjacent teeth. If the adjacent teeth already have large restorations or are in need of crowns for other reasons, a bridge may be the more clinically sensible choice.

Yes, in most cases dental insurance covers a portion of bridge costs as a major restorative procedure. Coverage typically applies to the less expensive material option; patients who want all-ceramic may pay a material upgrade difference. Annual maximums and waiting periods may apply. Our team at Smolyar Dental in Newton, MA will review your benefits with you before treatment begins.

If a bridge chips, cracks, or comes loose, contact Smolyar Dental in Newton, MA promptly. Minor chips can sometimes be repaired chairside. A loose bridge should be recemented quickly to prevent decay beneath the crowns. In some cases, a failed bridge indicates that the abutment teeth have developed problems and a different restorative approach may be needed. Dr. Smolyar will evaluate the situation and recommend the best course of action.