Bridges

Bridges

A dental bridge is a restoration appliance used to fill gaps left by a missing tooth or teeth in order to keep the other teeth in your mouth from shifting into the empty space.

It can be used in situations where teeth have been lost due to decay, gum disease or injury, as well as for teeth that never came through in the first place.  As long as the teeth on either side of the gap are healthy, they can be used to support a dental bridge.

The bridge itself is a customized false tooth attached to crowns affixed to the healthy teeth on either side of a gap to “bridge” the gap. Bridges can be fixed in place, meaning they can only removed by your dentist, or removable and taken out at any time. Your dental professional will decide which is best for you. 

Getting a dental bridge generally involves two or more appointments.  The first is to prepare the abutment teeth to receive and support the bridge by removing part of the enamel.  This makes room for the crown to slide onto the abutment teeth.  This is also when your dentist will make an impression, or mold, of your mouth that will be used to create your bridge. You may be given a temporary bridge to wear while you wait for the permanent appliance. 

During your second visit, your dentist will affix and adjust the permanent bridge into place ensuring a proper and comfortable fit.  With good oral hygiene, a bridge can last up to 10 years before needing to be replaced. 

A dental bridge not only improves the appearance of your smile, it can restore the ability to properly chew food and help with speech and pronunciation issues caused by missing teeth.