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Mind the gap

Dental Bridges at Kitto Family Dental

A bridge fills the space from a missing tooth by anchoring to the teeth next door. It’s a classic, well-tested option, and often faster and less expensive than an implant.

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Smiling older man relaxing in a dental chair
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Ashley Kitto Channer, DDS·Last updated
4.9 out of 5 from 473 Google reviews (as of October 2026). Read them on GoogleCaring for Santa Maria families for more than 40 yearsThree dentists accepting new patients

Fill a gap without an implant.

A dental bridge is a connected set of crowns that replaces a missing tooth by anchoring to the two neighboring teeth. The bridge is custom-made in a lab and bonded in place. Most bridges take two visits over two to three weeks.

What are the benefits of dental bridges?

Gap? What gap?

A false tooth replaces the missing one between two crowns.

Keeps the neighbors in line

Neighbor teeth are less likely to tip into the space.

Chew like you mean it

Chewing on that side feels normal again.

Blends right in

Matched to the shade of your other teeth.

Faster than an implant

Bridges are usually done in two visits a few weeks apart.

Options, side by side

Compare with dental implants before you decide.

When a bridge makes sense.

Bridges are a reasonable choice when:

  • The teeth on either side of the gap are healthy and strong
  • You want a faster solution than an implant (which involves healing time)
  • The cost difference between a bridge and an implant matters
  • You aren’t a candidate for an implant for a specific clinical reason

Bridges aren’t always the best choice. If the neighboring teeth are already weak or have large fillings, shaping them for a bridge may not be ideal. In that case, a dental implant may be the more conservative option because it doesn’t touch the neighboring teeth.

What the bridge process looks like.

Consult and plan

Comprehensive exam, imaging, and discussion of your options. We explain the trade-offs between bridge and implant for your specific case.

Prep and impression

The two anchor teeth are shaped to receive crowns. An impression is taken. A temporary bridge covers the site.

Fabrication

The custom bridge is made in a lab, typically taking two to three weeks.

Fit and bond

The temporary is removed and the final bridge is tried in, adjusted, and bonded.

Bridge vs. implant at a glance

FactorDental bridgeDental implant
Time to complete2 to 3 weeks3 to 6 months (includes healing)
Affects neighboring teethYes (anchor teeth are shaped for crowns)No (free-standing)
Typical lifespanOften 10 to 15 yearsOften 20+ years
Upfront costLowerHigher
Insurance coverageCommonly covered in partVariable; often partial
Bone preservationNo (bone can shrink under the gap)Yes (implant stimulates bone like a tooth root)
Replaces multiple teethYes (longer bridges)Yes (multiple implants or implant bridge)

Who you’ll see.

Portrait of Dr. Ashley Kitto Channer, DDS

Dr. Ashley Kitto Channer, DDS

Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. Practicing since 2011, in the practice her father, Dr. Robert Kitto, founded. Full-scope family and restorative care.

Every doctor here sees kids and adults, and you can ask for the same doctor each visit. Meet all three dentists.

Insurance, minus the headache.

  • Most PPO plans welcome. We check your benefits before your visit, including deductible and remaining yearly maximum.
  • A written estimate first. For anything beyond a routine preventive visit, you see what insurance is expected to pay and what you owe before we begin.
  • We file the claim. You don’t need to send anything to your carrier yourself.
  • No insurance? No problem. We explain costs up front. Our membership plan covers routine care for one yearly fee, and CareCredit or Cherry financing can help with larger treatment.

Not sure what your plan covers?

Call with your carrier name and member ID. We’ll tell you what to expect before you book. Heads up: we don’t participate in most DHMO or Medi-Cal dental plans.

Check my coverage

Insurance and payment details

Why replace a missing tooth?

Over time, teeth next to a gap can tip and the tooth above or below can drift. Chewing can shift to one side. Filling the space helps keep your bite stable.

Got questions? We’ve got answers

Have questions about dental bridges?

How long do bridges last?
Well-made bridges typically last many years. Longevity depends on the health of the anchor teeth, your bite, and hygiene. Flossing under the bridge is important and we show you how.
How does a bridge compare to an implant?
An implant doesn’t touch neighboring teeth and typically lasts longer. A bridge is faster (no healing time), often costs less, and is a well-tested option. We walk you through both and let you decide. See dental implants.
Will a bridge affect my ability to eat?
Once bonded, a well-made bridge functions like your natural teeth. There may be a short adjustment period as you get used to the shape, but most patients eat normally within days.
Does insurance cover bridges?
Most PPO plans cover a portion of bridge costs when a tooth is missing. Coverage varies by plan. We recommend a pre-treatment estimate from your insurance before starting.
How long does it take to get a bridge?
Most bridges take two visits, typically two to three weeks apart. We prepare the supporting teeth and place a temporary bridge first, then fit and bond the final bridge.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Brush as usual, and clean under the false tooth every day with a floss threader, a water flosser, or bridge floss. We show you how at your fitting visit.
Who is a good candidate for a bridge?
Bridges often work well when the teeth on both sides of the gap are strong enough to support them, or already need crowns. If those teeth are healthy and unfilled, an implant may protect them better. We review both options with you.
Will I know the cost before treatment, and when do I pay?
Yes. Before any treatment beyond your exam and cleaning, you get a written plan with a cost estimate. If you have insurance, we check your benefits first and file the claim for you. Your portion is due at the time of service. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, and financing through CareCredit or Cherry for larger treatment. See insurance and payment.

Why people love Kitto.

4.9

473 Google reviews as of October 2026.

Hear it from the neighbors

While you’re here.

Swipe for more. It all happens right here on East Main.

Light reading (for your teeth).

Patient guideAn Old Filling Needs Attention. What Should You Ask?Questions that help you understand a filling or crown recommendation.Patient guideIt Has Been Years. Where Do I Start?The first step back is smaller than you think. No lectures.Patient guideHow Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?Twice a year fits most people. Here’s who needs more, or less.

We accept most PPO plans, CareCredit, Cherry, and offer a membership plan for patients without insurance.

Missing a tooth? Let’s bridge the gap.

Call us to discuss your options. Bridge, implant, or something else, we’ll show you the trade-offs.

Call (805) 922-4109Request an Appointment
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