Dental Bridges
What is a dental bridge?
We Create Beautiful and Brighter Smiles
A dental bridge is much like an architectural bridge. Just as a bridge connects two points, a dental bridge spans the gap left by a missing tooth, using the adjacent teeth for support. It effectively fills in the space where a tooth is lost, restoring both function and appearance.
Dental Bridges: Closing the Gaps for a Complete, Confident Smile
How is a bridge designed?
Like different types of bridges in architecture, dental bridges come in various designs. The standard 3-unit bridge is the most common, consisting of:
- A crown is placed on the tooth to the left of the gap.
- A pontic (replacement tooth) that fills the space.
- A crown is placed on the tooth to the right of the gap.
These three components are fused together to create the bridge. The crowns are placed over the neighboring teeth (called abutments), securing the bridge and filling the gap left by the missing tooth.
What if I need to replace more than one tooth?
Taking care of your bridge
What innovative or alternative bridge types are there?
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, implant-supported bridges are an excellent alternative. Instead of using natural teeth as support, implants are placed directly into the jawbone. Once the implants integrate with the bone, the bridge is securely attached. Implant bridges offer long-term durability and can last a lifetime, though they typically come with higher upfront costs due to the surgical procedure required.
Dr. Shirali Shah takes the time to review all options and works closely with you to make informed decisions based on your specific needs. You will receive all the necessary information to ensure the best treatment for your situation.
