Dental Bridges
restore your smile
Overview
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth, whether it's a single tooth or multiple teeth in a row. As the name suggests, a dental bridge "bridges the gap" in your smile, restoring both function and appearance. These custom-made appliances are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless look.
A dental bridge is composed of two main components:
Abutments: These are the structures that support the bridge. They can be natural teeth or small connector posts used in implant-supported bridges.
Pontics: These are the artificial teeth that replace the missing ones, filling the gap in your smile.
The configuration of your bridge will depend on your specific needs and the type of bridge chosen. It may include one or more abutments and one or more pontics to achieve a comfortable and functional fit.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
Quickest, minimally invasive and lowest cost option to replace one or more missing teeth
Natural-looking solution for tooth loss
Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap left behind by missing teeth
Restore chewing and speech function
Procedure Details
If you have healthy teeth on each side of a missing tooth (or teeth), your dentist files down the 2 healthy teeth to prepare them for the bridge. If you don’t have healthy teeth or enough teeth to support a bridge, then dental implants may be surgically placed. A dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium metal that is inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the natural tooth. The implant acts as an anchor to hold an artificial tooth or bridge in place.
Next, your dentist makes a model of your teeth by taking impressions (molds). The model is used to custom-make the artificial tooth (or teeth) and 2 crowns as one piece. This piece is called a bridge.
Meanwhile your dentist places a temporary bridge in your mouth to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
During your second visit, your dentist removes the temporary bridge and places the custom made bridge in your mouth. The crowns are either cemented to your 2 healthy teeth or attached to your dental implants on each side of the missing tooth (or teeth).
Recovery
Recovery times can vary depending on the individual and several factors. On average, it takes one to two weeks for your teeth and gums to heal. However, it may take slightly longer for your new dental bridge to feel completely natural and comfortable.