Services

Bridges

All of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing and in maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss doesn’t necessarily have to occur as you age, but if you do lose teeth they must be replaced to maintain proper function of your mouth. Fortunately, there are options for correcting tooth loss.

Dental Bridge Options

A bridge — a device used to replace missing teeth — attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. Bridges are either permanently attached (fixed bridges), or they can be removable (partial denture).

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may be aware of their importance to your appearance and dental health. Your teeth work together as a team. When a member of the team is missing, then the rest are handicapped. Fixed bridges are an option to restore your dental health when you are not a candidate for implants.

What exactly is a bridge or fixed partial denture?

A bridge (fixed partial denture) is a device which fills the gap where teeth are absent. Fixed bridges are bonded into place and can only be removed by a dental professional. Removable bridges, as the name implies, can be taken out and cleaned. Fixed bridges offer more stability than their removable counterparts. However, hygiene habits are incredibly important in keeping your bridge healthy.

Why do I need a bridge?

Oral functionality and appearance are important reasons for bridges. The loss of a back tooth may cause your mouth to sink and your face to look older. Dental health is the most important reason for a bridge. Teeth were designed to touch each other. Unusual stresses are placed on the gums and other oral tissues when teeth are missing, causing a number of potentially harmful disorders. Increased risk of gum disease has proven to be one of the worst side effects of missing teeth.

How is a bridge attached?

Normally it will take 2 appointments to complete your bridge. The first appointment we will shape teeth on either side of the gap allowing space for the fake tooth to rest and then we will take an impression. We will send all the data to our laboratory for fabrication. The bridge must be very precise to ensure the bite matches the opposing tooth. Fixed bridges are typically bonded to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A pontic (false tooth) replaces the lost tooth.

How do I take care of my bridge?

A strict regimen of brushing and flossing will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. Hygiene is the biggest factor that dictates how long you will keep your bridge. Flossing under the fake tooth every day will help in retaining the restoration. You can expect a bridge to last 10 – 15 years if cared for properly. If you wish to have a longer lasting restoration, please see our page on Implants. Implants can be a lifelong restoration is cared for properly.