Bridges

Why is a bridge necessary?

One or more missing teeth can adversely affect the appearance and function of your smile.  Changes in occlusion (bite) can occur, teeth may shift or hyper-erupt, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can arise, speech impediments may develop, and the risk for periodontal (gum) disease and tooth decay increases.    

What is a bridge?

A bridge is one method for replacing a missing tooth.  Dental bridges are supported by the natural existing teeth on each side of the missing tooth.  It is therefore necessary for these surrounding teeth to be prepared and crowned, only in order to adhere to the bridge. 

These two crowned teeth then do the chewing work that three natural teeth would normally do.  For that reason, the health of these teeth and gums may be more vulnerable, yet is critical to the continued support of the bridge.  This is why, at times, a dental implant maybe recommended above a bridge to replace missing teeth.      For more information about dental implants, click here.