Bridges

Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth - to bridge a gap. Why is it important to replace a missing tooth? The teeth adjacent to the space can tip into the space, creating more space for food impaction on the other side of these teeth, and changing the bite. There is also the potential for the upper opposing tooth, above the space, to over erupt or come down until it hits the opposing tooth. When this happens the root  of the upper tooth starts to become exposed which can lead to increased sensitivity along the gum line.

A bridge is made up of two or more crowns, atleast one on either side of the space, attached to a false tooth (to fill the space). The greater the space (# of missing teeth) the greater the need to increase the number of adjacent teeth need to support the bridge. The crowns on either side are referred to as abutments, and the false tooth is referred to as a pontic.

The procedure is basically the same as that of a crown, the teeth are reduced slightly to allow for the thickness of the crowns (1-2mm), an impression is taken, and temporary crowns place until the lab completes the fabrication of the bridge. At the second appointment the permanent bridge is place. This appointment is much shorter than the first. We will seat the bridge permanently. At this time we will also review how to care for your new bridge, we'll show you how to use threaders of superfloss to ensure you are able to keep the area between the gum and false tooth clean.

Alternatives to a bridge include a dental implant or a removable partial.