What is a Dental Bridge?

Bridges span the space created when teeth are missing. A bridge may be recommended if you’re missing one or more teeth. A bridge is made up of two (or more) crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap with a false tooth or teeth in between. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants. Gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite.

The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Benefits of a Dental Bridge

• Restore your smile
• Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
• Maintain the shape of your face
• Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position

Non-Removable Implant Supported Bridges

When several teeth in a row are missing, they can be replaced by a bridge anchored to implants. An implant is not needed for each tooth being replaced. Three or four teeth can be replaced with just two dental implants for support. This is less expensive than placing an individual implant for each tooth being replaced.

Dental implants provide several advantages over other teeth replacement options.

• In addition to looking and functioning like natural teeth, implant-supported bridges replace teeth without support from adjacent natural teeth.
• Additionally dental implants are strong and can support the biting forces of several teeth when they are anchored together.
• Because implant-supported bridges will replace some of your tooth roots, your bone is better preserved. With a fixed bridge or removable partial denture, the bone that previously surrounded the tooth root may begin to resorb (deteriorate). Dental implants integrate with your jawbone, helping to keep the bone healthy and intact.

In the long term, implants look better, function better and are more comfortable.

Crown Supported Dental Bridge?

A bridge is made up of two (or more) crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth with a false tooth or teeth in between. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants.

• A dental bridge consists of two crowns, which are attached and anchor the the replacement tooth in between.
• These two crowns are cemented to the abutments - the natural teeth on either side of the empty space and act as anchors for the replacement tooth.

As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. Our dentist can help you decide which to use, based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations and cost. Porcelain or ceramic bridges can be matched to the color of your natural teeth.

Contact us today and schedule an appointment with our office to get an opinion on your need for dental bridges.

Don't hesitate to contact us to discuss any aspect of your dental health - we don't charge for giving advice!