Dental Bridges

Missing teeth can affect your speech, chewing and the alignment of remaining teeth.  If you have a gap because of a missing tooth/teeth, then a dental bridge might be your solution. 

Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth.  A bridge is made up of two or more crowns placed on either side of the missing tooth – these are called abutments.  The crowns on either side are joined together by the false tooth/teeth – called a pontic(s).  It’s called a “bridge” because it bridges the gap between the missing tooth.   It is a permanent fixed bridge.  It is cemented on so you do not have to worry about taking the bridge in and out on your own as you would with a denture! 

A bridge is typically used to replace a tooth or a few missing teeth in the same area of the mouth.  It also requires good healthy teeth on either side of the gap that can support the bridge.  Your dentist will help you determine if a bridge will work for you.

To have a bridge completed, it is a two-appointment procedure approximately 2 weeks apart.  At your first appointment, your dentist shapes the teeth on either side of the gap to allow the bridge to fit over them. We make you a temporary bridge with material here at our office to keep these protected while your bridge is being made.  Together with our team, you will pick a customized shade/color for your new bridge to ensure looks natural!  At your second visit, we remove the temporary bridge and place your new bridge, transforming your smile!! 

If you are wanting to replace multiple missing teeth, you may consider dentures as an alternative.  You can read about them in the “dentures” section.  A consult with your dentist will help determine the best options for optimum results!