Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is usually fused between two porcelain crowns to replace a missing tooth. The two crowns that hold the pontic in place are attached to your teeth on each side of the false tooth. This is known as a fixed bridge. Cosmetic dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth, as with removable partial dentures. Bridges can reduce your risk of gum disease, help correct some bite issues, and even improve your speech.

Cosmetic, all-porcelain bridges are what we use unless there is a compelling reason otherwise. When properly seated, porcelain bridges are virtually as strong or stronger than their metal predecessor. And the appearance can be identical to a natural tooth, allowing light to pass through (referred to as translucency).

If you have one or more missing teeth and maintain good oral hygiene, you should discuss this procedure with your cosmetic dentist. If spaces are left unfilled, they may cause the surrounding teeth to drift out of position. Additionally, spaces from missing teeth can cause your other teeth and your gums to become far more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.