Dental Bridges

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is used to replace a gap of missing teeth. It can be used to replace either a single missing tooth, or a space of several missing teeth. The dental bridge literally bridges the gap in between teeth, replacing the missing tooth or teeth with a beautiful replication. A dental bridge is permanently cemented onto your natural teeth, so that you never have to worry about taking it in or out of your mouth.

When Would I Look to Get a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is a great option if you have teeth on either side of the missing tooth space. If you have a gap in your teeth that is affecting your speech, chewing or general comfort, a bridge could be a good option for you.

A bridge is usually the treatment of choice when one or both teeth on either side of the missing tooth space has a large filling on it. The bridge not only replaces the missing tooth but protects the adjacent teeth from fracturing by covering them as well. This also helps to maintain the space between your teeth and prevent tilting or your teeth shifting out of position.

How Does a Dental Bridge Work?

A bridge sits on the teeth (bridge retainers) in front and behind the space, and a false tooth (bridge pontic) hangs in the missing tooth space. A bridge is cemented into place and is not removable, creating a more permanent solution to your missing tooth or teeth.

There are a number of different kinds of bridges depending on how many teeth you need to be bridged, as well as different techniques for affixing the bridges to your teeth. A visit and consultation with our dentists will be able to determine what kind of bridge is best for you.

Many materials are used in bridge fabrication. Zirconia is the most popular as it is stronger and more rigid than metal, and is tooth colored. PFM (porcelain fused to metal) is another option, although it is becoming less common. It combines the strength of metal with the esthetics of porcelain. All bridges can be custom colored to match your natural teeth to allow for a natural smile.