Dental bridges are fixed dental prostheses used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) supported by dental crowns or metal frameworks attached to the neighboring teeth (abutments) or implants.
Dental bridges offer several advantages for patients with missing teeth, including restoring chewing function, improving speech, preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of position, and enhancing facial aesthetics. They provide a durable and natural-looking solution for tooth replacement that can enhance overall oral health and quality of life.
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves two or more dental visits. During the initial appointment, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to accommodate the bridge, and impressions are taken to fabricate a custom-made bridge in a dental laboratory. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.
Once the bridge is ready, it is cemented or bonded into place, creating a seamless restoration that blends with the surrounding teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last for many years, providing functional and aesthetic benefits for patients with missing teeth.