Dental bridges are exactly that – a literal ‘bridge’ that closes the gap that has been created by one or more missing teeth.
Bridges are a safe and effective treatment option for people that have lost some of their teeth. A dental bridge is a non-removable appliance and is essentially comprised of two crowns (one for each tooth on either side of the gap) with a false tooth (or teeth) then located between them.
Bridges can only replace a span of one to three missing teeth. The natural ‘abutment’ teeth on both sides of the gap must be healthy enough to support the placement of the crowns and the bridging structure and artificial teeth that will be bonded to them. Bridges are generally made of porcelain fused to metal. They offer many benefits beyond simply restoring your smile – they can help you maintain your ability to chew and speak, keep your remaining teeth from ‘drifting’ out of position, and re-distribute the forces in your bite.