Tooth Replacement: Bridges

A bridge is used when one or more teeth have been lost. To repair and replace the gap with a tooth (pontic), we first take an impression so that crowns can be made for the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth. These two crowns will support the pontic. A temporary bridge is made and placed until the permanent bridge is ready and cemented into place.

Advantages of bridges:

• look, feel and function like natural teeth
• don’t require removal for cleaning
• cost less than implants

Disadvantages of bridges:

• likely to be more expensive than a removable partial denture
• affect the teeth next to the missing tooth
• may require extra effort to clean under the pontic