Bridges are a custom dental treatment used for one, two, or three missing teeth in a row surrounded by strong healthy teeth. It is used to replace missing teeth and restore the look and function of your smile
Who needs a bridge?
Any patient who has missing teeth may be evaluated for the placement of a bridge. The most common causes of a missing disease are tooth decay, gum disease, and injury. Sometimes teeth could also be missing due to a congenital condition.
Why do I need a bridge?
Missing teeth can affect both the look of your smile and the functionality of your other teeth. The teeth surrounding the missing tooth can shift into the empty space, or your bite can change to accommodate the missing tooth. A bridge fills the hole so that all of your remaining teeth remain in the appropriate space and your bite isn’t affected. Missing teeth can also cause pain, and chewing difficulties, as well as self-consciousness about the look of your smile.
What Does a Bridge Look Like?
A bridge consists of 2 different kinds of teeth.
- Abutments – abutments are anchoring or supporting teeth surrounding the missing tooth/teeth. The crowns on these teeth support the replacement tooth.
- Pontics – these false tooth/teeth replace the missing tooth and attach to the crowns
What other treatment options exist?
Other treatments for missing teeth include partial dentures, which are removable prosthetics, and dental implants which involve replacing the missing tooth with a screw that doesn’t require the support of neighboring teeth. If you have a missing tooth, talk to Dr. Shah about which option is best for you!
How common are bridges?
Bridges are a very common solution for replacing missing teeth. They are non-removable, can last many years with good oral hygiene, and fully restore the function and look of your smile!
