BRIDGES

A dental bridge can be used to replace certain missing teeth; the missing tooth must be adjacent to two remaining teeth. These teeth are used as retainers called abutments to span the gap with a replacement tooth called a pontic.
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they require regular maintenance and cleaning which can be difficult for some patients. If possible a dental implant is a better solution to replace a missing tooth. Unfortunately, implants are not possible in all cases.
How are bridges made?
A bridge is generally placed in two steps. The first step involves shaping the teeth to allow the bridge to fit onto the teeth. Afterwards a series of impressions are made of the prepared teeth and mouth which are used to make models of the person's teeth. These models of the mouth are sent to a dental laboratory where the custom made bridge is fabricated. A temporary bridge is placed after the first step to protect the teeth until the permanent bridge is placed.
At the second appointment your temporary bridge will be removed, and the new crown will be carefully adjusted to ensure the spacing and bite is accurate; finally the bridge will be cemented with permanent cement.