If the missing teeth include front teeth, a dental bridge can help restore the appearance and function of your teeth and fill the gap where the missing tooth is located. Talk to a dental professional to find out if this treatment is right for you. What are dental bridges? If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can fill the gap with one or more artificial (false) teeth. A bridge is usually made of crowns on either side of the missing tooth or pontic retainers (prosthetic teeth) and secured in place. ### Who needs dental bridges? If you have a missing tooth or teeth, dental bridges can help. The most common causes of tooth loss are tooth decay, gum disease, and other injuries, or you may be born with missing teeth due to a congenital condition. To get a dental bridge, you need healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth. Why do I need a dental bridge? Your teeth work together. If a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth can move into the space. Your front teeth can also move up or down into space. This can cause problems: - Biting problems - Chewing problems Pain from extra pressure on your teeth and jaw. - Self-awareness about your appearance or smile. What is the shape of a dental bridge? A typical dental bridge has the following: Primary teeth: A dental professional places two crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap. These anchor teeth or retaining teeth can be your natural teeth or dental implants. Pontic: This artificial tooth fills the gap and attaches to the crowns. ### What types of dental bridges are available? The four main types of bridges are: Traditional Fixed Bridge: This is the most common bridge. It has two or more crowns and a tooth or fillings that are all connected together. Crowns hold the bridge in place. Traditional bridges are made of metal, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic. Cantilever bridge: In this type of bridge, the pontic is connected to only one abutment tooth. This can sometimes be an option for people who only have a gap on one side. Maryland dental bridge (resin bonded bridge): If your front teeth are missing, you may have this type of bridge. It is made of metal or ceramic teeth supported by a framework, and the wings on each side of the bridge attach to your existing teeth. Implant-supported bridge: This bridge is similar to a traditional fixed bridge, but instead of being fixed to the teeth, it is held in place by an implant. #### What can I use instead of a dental bridge? Some people choose partial dentures, which are removable artificial teeth. You take them out to clean them. You may also be a candidate for dental implants. The implant is surgically placed in your jaw. Your dentist can help you find the best option for you. #### How common are dental bridges? Dental bridges are a common solution for missing teeth. Dentists have been using them for several years. #### What happens during a traditional dental bridge? You usually need at least two appointments: Abutment tooth preparation: At your first visit, the healthcare provider will reshape the abutment teeth. They remove some of the enamel and dentin, making room for the crown. Impressions: Your dentist will take an impression or digital scan of your teeth. A dental lab uses a cast or scan as a model to create your bridge, dentures, and crown. Placement of the permanent bridge: During your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent bridge. Your dentist will carefully examine the bridge and make any necessary adjustments to make sure it fits you comfortably. What are the advantages of this method? A dental bridge can: - Help your bite - Prevent the remaining teeth from moving. - Improve the ability to chew and speak. - He returned the smile. ### Does the dental bridge have any risks or complications? If you take proper care of your bridge, it can last for years without complications. If the surrounding teeth are decayed, in which case, according to the doctor's discretion, the bridge is either filled or de-nerved, or the glue is damaged, the bridge may fail. If the bridge comes loose and the retaining teeth are still intact, your provider may be able to reattach it with new material. ### How long is the life of dental bridges? Dental bridges can last at least five to seven years. With good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning, this bridge may last more than 10 years.