Evaluate the support
Dr. Lee examines the teeth or implants that would support the bridge, along with the surrounding bone and bite, to determine whether they can carry the planned restoration.
Dental bridges in Seattle
Dr. Jaime Lee uses dental bridges to replace one or more missing teeth when the surrounding support can carry a fixed restoration.
She evaluates the teeth bordering the space, available bone, bite forces, and implant alternatives before determining whether a bridge provides the right structural solution.
Fixed tooth replacement
How does a dental bridge replace missing teeth?
A bridge restores a missing-tooth space with replacement teeth connected to supporting teeth or implants.
Dr. Lee focuses on how the restoration will distribute biting forces, preserve function across the gap, and integrate with the condition of the surrounding teeth rather than treating the missing space in isolation.
- Replace one or more missing teeth
- Restore chewing across a gap
- Re-establish contact with neighboring teeth
- Integrate the replacement into the existing bite
What does bridge treatment involve?
Prepare and record the site
Dr. Lee prepares the supporting teeth so they can hold the bridge. She uses a digital scan to record the teeth and your bite to plan the design and fit of the restoration.
Compare implant-supported options
When implants are part of the treatment decision, Dr. Lee compares the bridge plan with implant-supported replacement based on the number of missing teeth and available support.
What are the steps to get a dental bridge?
- Define the missing-tooth space. Dr. Lee evaluates the number and position of missing teeth and the functional demands of the area.
- Assess the support. She analyzes neighboring teeth, existing restorations, bone, and bite forces to determine which structures can support the replacement.
- Design the restoration. The bridge is planned to replace the missing teeth while maintaining proper contact, contour, and bite.
- Finalize fit and function. Dr. Lee checks the completed bridge before final placement and checks how it functions within the bite.
Am I a candidate for a dental bridge?
A bridge may be used to replace one or more adjacent missing teeth when the neighboring natural teeth or implants can provide support for the restoration.
If the supporting teeth would require unnecessary preparation or the available bone and treatment goals favor another approach, Dr. Lee may recommend an implant-supported option or removable replacement instead.
When should I replace a missing tooth?
Schedule an evaluation after tooth loss, when an existing bridge becomes loose or damaged, or when chewing across a missing-tooth space becomes difficult.
Dr. Lee uses the current condition of the space and supporting structures to determine whether a bridge remains the most appropriate fixed replacement.
What affects the cost of a dental bridge?
Your bridge cost depends on the number of teeth replaced, the type of support used, the condition of the supporting teeth, any preparatory treatment, and your dental benefits. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans and can verify how coverage applies.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on your plan and the services included in the bridge treatment.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Who provides your care at Smile Art?
Dr. Jaime Lee earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University in 2002. She evaluates the supporting teeth, surrounding gums, and your overall bite when planning a dental bridge.
Frequently asked questions
How is a dental bridge different from an implant?
A traditional bridge uses neighboring teeth for support. An implant-supported replacement uses fixtures anchored in bone. Dr. Lee compares the available support, condition of adjacent teeth, and treatment goals before recommending either approach.
Do the neighboring teeth have to be prepared for a bridge?
Natural-tooth-supported bridges usually require preparation of the supporting teeth. Implant-supported bridges use implants rather than neighboring natural teeth as the primary support.
Can an old bridge be replaced?
Yes. Dr. Lee evaluates the bridge, supporting teeth or implants, bite, and surrounding tissues before determining the replacement plan.
How many teeth can a bridge replace?
Dr. Lee determines the bridge span from the location of the gap, the strength of the supporting teeth, and how the restoration must function in your bite.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
The area beneath the replacement tooth needs daily plaque removal with an appropriate flossing or interdental method. Dr. Lee or the clinical team can recommend a method that fits the bridge design.
Can a bridge be supported by dental implants?
Yes. Several implants can support replacement teeth across a gap when implant-supported treatment is clinically appropriate.
What happens if a bridge feels loose?
Schedule an evaluation. Dr. Lee will assess the bridge, supporting structures, and bite to determine why the restoration has changed.
Does Smile Art accept insurance for dental bridges?
Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans. The team can verify your benefits and explain how your coverage applies to the planned bridge treatment.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.