Bridges
Maybe you have lost one or more teeth, and you want to fill that empty space in your mouth. A dental bridge fills the space, which will restore your smile and chewing functions. The bridge is held in place by the healthy teeth adjacent to the space, and it looks just like your natural teeth.
A bridge is a semi-permanent fixture, typically made of porcelain over metal. Bridges are especially effective if your surrounding teeth need crowns. In that case, the entire bridge and crown restoration brings strength and function back to those teeth. Bridges can solve the same problems as implants, and are a good alternative since they do not require surgery.
What to Expect
A few appointments are typically required for completing your bridge.
- Both teeth on each side of the missing tooth will be prepared for crowns
- An impression will be taken for the ceramic lab to fabricate your bridge
- You will have a temporary bridge while the dental ceramist creates your bridge
- At your follow-up appointment, your bridge will be tried in and assessed for function, comfort, and aesthetic approval. It will then be cemented permanently.
With proper care, a bridge can last for many years.
Still Curious?
Why Do I Need a Bridge?
A missing tooth is a serious matter. Teeth are made to work together. When you lose a tooth, the nearby teeth may tilt or drift into the empty space. The teeth in the opposite jaw may also shift up or down toward the space. This can affect your bite and place more stress on your teeth and jaw joints, possibly causing pain.
Teeth that have tipped or drifted are also harder to clean. This puts them at a higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
When a tooth is missing, the bone may shrink. If that happens, it may change the way the jawbone supports the lips and cheeks. Over time, this can make your face look older.
Patient education content ©2020 American Dental Association. All rights reserved. “ADA” and the “ADA” Logo are registered trademarks of the American Dental Association.
Implant-Supported Bridges and Implant-Supported Dentures
An implant-supported bridge replaces the lost natural teeth and some of the tooth roots when more than one tooth is missing. Unlike traditional bridges, an implant-supported bridge does not need support from the teeth next to it.
If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported denture can replace the missing teeth and some of the tooth roots. Because the bone in your jaw actually grows around the implants, an implant-supported denture tends to be comfortable and stable. This allows you to bite and chew naturally.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Implant-Supported Denture
Patient education content ©2020 American Dental Association. All rights reserved. “ADA” and the “ADA” Logo are registered trademarks of the American Dental Association.
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