What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthesis used to replace a missing tooth. They’re similar to a dental crown in that they replace the part of the tooth visible above the gum. The key difference is that a bridge is made up of several crowns fused together. The crowns at the end go over healthy teeth, while the crown(s) in the middle replace teeth that have been extracted or knocked out in the past.

Hence the name — the prosthetic “bridges” the gap between healthy teeth.

Why do I need a dental bridge?

It’s important to replace missing teeth wherever possible.

• Having a tooth missing on one side can place strain on the teeth on the other side, as people often start to favor the side with more teeth for chewing.

• Teeth either side of a missing tooth can “tip” into the space left by a missing tooth, causing bite problems and leading to increased risk of infection.

• People with obviously missing teeth can often find it harder to get jobs or make relationships due to social stigmas.

• It’s more affordable than a dental implant for replacing a single tooth.

What’s the process for getting a dental bridge?

Dental bridges, like crowns, require at least two appointments to Fabulous Smiles Dental Care. During the first visit, the mouth is prepared. This involves shaving down some of the enamel on the teeth either side of the missing tooth, and making impressions. It’s necessary to shave those teeth down to allow the crowns to fit over them later.

The impressions are taken to a lab, where they’re used as the basis of your custom-made bridge. Once this bridge is completed, you’ll return to Fabulous Smiles Dental Care to have the prosthetic cemented in place. The crowns at the end, known as abutments, will go over the prepared teeth, while the crown in the middle fills the gap left by the missing tooth.

Ask our Carson family dental team at Fabulous Smiles Dental Care today about booking an appointment to see if you’re a good candidate for a dental bridge.