Can You Get a Dental Bridge if You Have Gum Disease?

June 1, 2025

Dreaming of a complete smile again? Even if gum disease has shaken your confidence, don’t lose hope. Many people exploring dental offices offering dental bridges, have faced the same worries. You’re not alone, and the good news is there are real solutions. Let’s find the right path together for a healthier, stronger smile.

Understanding Dental Bridges

Dental bridges close the gap left behind by missing teeth. They use neighboring teeth for support and create a strong, natural-looking smile. Think of it like building a solid bridge over a river: you need strong banks to hold it up.

Fixed bridges: Cemented in place, they feel natural.
Removable bridges: Can be taken off for cleaning.
Implant-supported bridges: Rest on implants instead of natural teeth.

If you’re considering Dental Bridges, it’s important to have a stable foundation in your gums and jawbone first.

What is Gum Disease?

This is an infection in the tissues that support your teeth. It often starts quietly with some redness and swelling. As it grows worse, it can destroy the bone under your gums.

There are two main stages:

Gingivitis: The early stage. Gums may bleed, but the bone isn’t damaged yet.
Periodontitis: A deeper infection that eats away at bone and tissues.

Signs you might notice:

Bleeding when brushing
Swollen, tender gums
Loose teeth
Bad breath that sticks around

Ignoring it can lead to tooth loss. That’s why it’s key to catch gum disease early, especially before getting a dental or tooth bridge.

Can You Get a Dental Bridge if You Have Gum Disease?

The short answer: it depends.

If your gum disease is still in the early gingivitis stage, treatment can often bring your gums back to good health. Once the infection is under control, a bridge becomes possible.

However, if the disease has advanced to periodontitis and caused bone loss, you may need additional work before a bridge can be placed.

Dentists always want to build on a healthy foundation. We carefully examine your gums to ensure the best possible outcome for your bridge.

Treatment Options Before Getting a Dental Bridge

Before moving ahead, your dentist might suggest steps to improve gum health:

Deep cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): Cleans below the gumline to remove bacteria.
Antibiotic treatments: Help fight stubborn infections.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery is needed to repair the damage.

You may also need:

Better brushing and flossing habits
Special mouth rinses
Regular dental visits for monitoring

Before considering getting dental Bridges near you, it’s important to make sure your gums are healthy. Active gum disease can weaken the foundation needed for lasting results. Taking time to treat the infection first gives your bridge the best chance for long-term success and keeps your smile strong.

Alternatives if a Dental Bridge Isn’t Immediately Possible

Sometimes, the damage from gum disease is too severe for a traditional bridge right away. But don’t worry; there are still options:

Dental Implants: Implants replace missing teeth directly into the jawbone. Healthy gums are still needed, but bone grafting can help if bone loss is severe.
Partial Dentures: Removable options that fill gaps while gums heal.
Gum Treatments First: Some patients focus only on healing gums for several months before getting a bridge.

Healing first might feel like a delay, but it’s the smartest move for a strong, lasting smile.

Maintaining a Dental Bridge with a History of Gum Disease

If you’ve had gum disease before, you need to be extra careful with your dental bridge. Protect your investment with good daily habits.

Here’s how:

Brush carefully twice daily: Pay special attention to the area around the bridge.
Use a floss threader: It helps clean under the bridge where food can hide.
Rinse with dentist-recommended solutions: This keeps bacteria from building up.
Visit your dentist regularly: They can catch small problems before they grow big.

Simple actions every day protect both your gums and your bridge, keeping your smile looking great.

Final Thoughts

Gum disease doesn’t have to hold you back. With expert care, a strong smile is within reach. To know more about dental bridges in Philadelphia, PA, visit Elegance in Dentistry. We’re ready to guide you every step. Explore your options today and discover how a dental bridge can rebuild your confidence. Healthy gums are the first step toward a beautiful future. Start your journey now.