Bridges are one method to fill a gap created by a missing tooth (or teeth). A bridge can replace one or more teeth thus having both functional and esthetic importance.

The Problem

The Solution

The Procedure

Advantages

Disadvantages

Alternatives

The Problem:

A missing tooth or teeth
Potential bite and jaw joint problems from teeth shifting to fill the space
Desire to improve chewing ability
Desire for a more permanent solution than dentures

The Solution:

Bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. They safeguard the integrity of existing teeth and help maintain a healthy, vibrant smile. There are different types of bridges:

1) Fixed Bridge: consists of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth in between.

2) Cantilever Bridge: is used when there are teeth on only one side of the gap in the mouth.

3) Maryland Bonded Bridge: is commonly used to replace the front teeth.

You and your dentist will decide which type is appropriate depending upon the position of the gap and the surrounding teeth.

The Procedure:

The teeth on either side of the gap are prepared for crowns (see crowns) and a highly accurate impression or mold is made of the prepared area. This mold is used to create a bridge in a dental laboratory. The bridge is then cemented onto the prepared surface of the teeth, effectively creating the appearance of a "new" tooth.

Advantages:

Bridges are very strong and highly durable. Unlike dentures, a bridge is never removed. It is stable in the mouth and works very similar to natural teeth. By filling the gap and stopping the movement of other teeth, a fixed bridge is an excellent investment, providing better chewing ability, heading off jaw joint and/or biting problems.

Disadvantages:

Fixed bridges are excellent restorations but have a main disadvantage over dental implants, which is losing tooth structure on the teeth adjacent to the gap to hold the bridge. Also, it is harder to clean a bridge than implants.

Alternatives:

In the event that the use of a fixed bridge is not feasible, the best alternative is a dental implant or a removable partial denture.