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Cosmetic Dentistry - Bridges

A bridge fills the space left by one or more natural missing teeth using the teeth or tooth adjacent to the space. Fixed bridges are cemented into place next to the surrounding teeth on either side of the space, or "span." Unlike removable dentures, fixed bridges cannot be taken out of the mouth by the patient.

If you lose a tooth or teeth and the resultant space is left unfilled, this space can cause the surrounding teeth to drift out of position and can cause teeth and gums to become more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease that can cause further tooth loss. Fixed bridges not only correct an altered bite, improve your chewing ability and speech, but they also safeguard your appearance by preventing the collapse of your facial features that can cause premature wrinkles and age lines.

There are different types of bridges and your dentist will advise you which type is best suited to you.

In some cases where the span is too large, your dentist may recommend a removable partial denture or even an implant-supported prosthesis.

Care for Bridges

As with your natural teeth a bridge will need to be brushed and flossed. However as it is not possible to floss between the replacement tooth and the attaching crowns (it is made as a solid piece) it is necessary to use a special type of floss to go under the replacement tooth and keep this area of gum tissue healthy. This will be explained and demonstrated by your dentist or Oral Hygiene instructor when your bridge is fitted.

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