Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a device used to replace missing teeth. Bridges attach artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. There are two types of bridges: permanently attached bridges (fixed) and removable. If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may know their importance to your appearance and dental health. Your teeth work together for many daily functions, from eating to speaking. 

Fixed Dental Bridges

Dr. Tate applies fixed bridges by placing crowns on the abutment teeth or by bonding the artificial teeth directly to the abutment teeth. 

Removable Dental Bridges

Removable bridges are attached to the teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments.

1. A dental bridge procedure usually takes two or three appointments to complete.
2. At the first appointment, Dr. Tate will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin.
3. Impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the bridge is constructed.
4. Bridges are made from gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. 
5. Fixed bridges attach to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A pontic (false tooth) replaces the lost tooth. 
6. Crowns cemented onto the natural teeth provide additional support for the bridge.
7. A strict regimen of brushing and flossing will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean.