Bridges

As the name suggests, a dental bridge is used to “bridge” a gap caused by a missing tooth between two healthy teeth. Bridges are a helpful dental treatment because they can improve speech, correct some bite issues, and they decrease the risk of gum disease.

Types of bridges

Fixed: This type of bridge is a false tooth permanently fused between two porcelain crowns attached to neighboring teeth.

Resin: A resin bridge is an artificial tooth attached to a metal band bonded to the adjacent teeth. This band is not visible once it is bonded to the teeth. Resin bridges most often are used to fill gaps in the front teeth because porcelain crowns are not needed. Therefore, less grinding or buffing must be done to prepare the area for the bridge.

Cantilever: This type of bridge can be used in areas of the mouth that are not subject to as much stress from biting, tearing and chewing. This type is used when there are teeth on one side of the open space, as opposed to both sides.

The Procedure

A dental bridge usually is completed in two dental visits. The first visit involves preparation for the bridge. A dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. Next, the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are buffed to enable the porcelain crowns to be placed on them. An impression of the mouth where the missing tooth was located is taken to assist the dental laboratory in creating a custom bridge for the patient. The patient leaves with a temporary bridge while the permanent bridge is created.

On the second visit, the permanent bridge is affixed with strong cement. Minor adjustments are made to allow the bridge to line up with the other teeth, creating a natural appearance.

Bridges that are taken care of properly can last a decade.