Are You a Candidate for Dental Bridges in Melbourne, FL?

Discover If a Bridge Is Right for Your Smile at Our Dentist Office

Missing teeth can deeply impact your self-confidence and your ability to comfortably chew your favorite meals. When looking for reliable replacement options, a customized dental bridge is often a premier choice for restoring both function and aesthetics. Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC has proudly served Melbourne and Brevard County since 1980, providing top-tier restorative care in a welcoming, anxiety-free environment. Led by Dr. Lee Sheldon, Dr. Matt Sheldon, and board-certified periodontist Dr. Michel Furtado, our team combines decades of clinical expertise with advanced technology. Voted Best of Brevard for the eleventh year, our dentist’s office near you has the specialized skills required to evaluate your unique oral anatomy and find the perfect replacement solution.

While a dental bridge is a fantastic option for many individuals, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. A thorough, high-tech evaluation is absolutely necessary to ensure the long-term success of the restoration. If you are missing one or more teeth and want to know your options, call our friendly Melbourne dental team today at (321) 259-8000 to schedule your comprehensive consultation.

Key Indicators of a Great Dental Bridge Candidate

Happy elderly patient in dental chair receiving treatment from hygienist wearing gloves, showcasing advanced dental care and patient comfort.

The primary requirement for Dental Bridges is having a gap left by one to three consecutive missing teeth. Because this specific restoration relies entirely on the adjacent natural teeth (known as abutments) for support, the condition of your surrounding oral structures dictates whether a bridge will be clinically successful. Our dentist office utilizes advanced 3D imaging technology to evaluate your jaw, roots, and bite alignment with absolute precision before making a recommendation.

You are likely an excellent candidate for this restorative procedure if you meet the following criteria:

  • You have healthy, structurally sound natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth gap.
  • You practice excellent daily oral hygiene to prevent future decay around the restoration.
  • You are looking for a permanent, fixed solution rather than relying on removable Dentures.
  • You want a faster restoration process that does not require months of healing or oral surgery.

The Importance of Strong Abutment Teeth

Unlike independent tooth replacements, a traditional bridge uses the natural teeth adjacent to the gap as structural anchors. To hold the bridge securely in place, these abutment teeth must be gently modified and shaped to accommodate custom Porcelain Crowns. Therefore, these anchor teeth must have exceptionally strong roots and sufficient healthy enamel to support the heavy, daily load of biting and chewing.

If the adjacent teeth are heavily decayed, structurally compromised, or loose, they will not be able to bear the weight of a bridge over time. During your thorough evaluation, our doctors will assess the core strength of these teeth to ensure they can provide a reliable foundation for your new smile. To schedule your structural evaluation, reach out to Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC by calling (321) 259-8000.

Evaluating Your Periodontal Health Person demonstrating gum inflammation and healthy gums, highlighting signs of gum disease relevant to periodontal treatment.

Healthy, disease-free gums are just as important as healthy teeth when it comes to successful restorative dentistry. If you are suffering from active gum disease, the tissues supporting your abutment teeth may be significantly weakened, which can eventually compromise the entire dental bridge. Because Dr. Michel Furtado is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, our dentist office provides specialized, expert insight into your periodontal health before any restorative work begins.

If our team detects signs of infection or inflammation, we can provide advanced, non-surgical Periodontal Treatment using the Perioscope to fully restore your gum health first. Establishing a solid, disease-free foundation ensures that your new bridge will last for years to come without complications. Do not let gum issues hold you back from a complete smile; call us at (321) 259-8000 to discuss your periodontal and restorative needs.

When Might Dental Implants Be a Better Choice?

While bridges are an excellent, rapid solution for tooth loss, some patients may find that Dental Implants are better suited to their long-term clinical needs. If you do not have healthy teeth on either side of the gap, or if you simply prefer not to alter your natural adjacent teeth, an implant is likely the preferred alternative. Implants function entirely independently, mimicking a natural tooth root to actively preserve your jawbone density and facial structure over time.

Additionally, if you are missing multiple teeth across a very large span, a traditional bridge may not offer enough stability and could eventually fracture. In these more complex cases, our doctors may strongly recommend an implant-supported bridge or Solid Bite℠ Teeth Replacement to fully restore your bite. To compare all your replacement options with skilled professionals, call our team at (321) 259-8000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a dental bridge if I have gum disease?

Active gum disease must be thoroughly treated and stabilized before a bridge can be placed safely. Placing a structural restoration over infected or inflamed tissue can lead to rapid bone loss and the eventual failure of the abutment teeth. Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC specializes in treating gum disease effectively, allowing us to prepare your mouth for successful tooth replacement.

How many consecutive teeth can a bridge replace?

A traditional dental bridge is typically most successful when replacing one or two missing teeth in a row. Replacing three or more consecutive teeth with a traditional bridge places excessive physical stress on the anchor teeth, increasing the risk of damage. For larger gaps, our doctors usually recommend implant-supported restorations to provide the necessary strength.

Am I too old to get a dental bridge?

There is absolutely no upper age limit for receiving a dental bridge. As long as you have healthy abutment teeth and good overall oral health, you can be an excellent candidate for this procedure. Restoring your chewing function is vital at any age to maintain proper nutrition, confident speech, and a high quality of life.

Schedule Your Restorative Consultation in Brevard County

Discovering whether you are an ideal candidate for a bridge starts with a comprehensive evaluation from a dental team you can trust. Finding highly rated dentists near you ensures that your restorative journey is handled with absolute precision, advanced technology, and compassionate care. Sheldon & Furtado, PLLC proudly serves the communities of Melbourne, Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, Titusville, and Viera, offering top-tier Full Dental Rehabilitation conveniently under one roof.

With the combined, collaborative expertise of Dr. Lee Sheldon, Dr. Matt Sheldon, and periodontist Dr. Michel Furtado, our dentist office utilizes high-tech dentistry to craft flawless, natural-looking smiles. Let our dedicated team help you regain your confidence and your solid bite. Call our Melbourne dentist’s office today to schedule your consultation and explore your tooth replacement options.