A dental bridge replaces one or more missing or broken teeth with false teeth. Bridges use one or more real teeth on either side of the gap to hold the false teeth in place.
Bridges can be either fixed, meaning they are permanent, or removable, meaning someone can take them out.
Dentists call each false tooth on a bridge a “mouse,” and some health care providers refer to a bridge as a “fixed partial denture.”
In this article, learn more about dental bridges.
A dental bridge can replace one tooth or several teeth. The false teeth in dental bridges look and function like real teeth.
For a bridge, a person can see a prosthodontist, a dentist who specializes in restoring and replacing missing teeth, or a regular dentist. Either way, there are many options for filling a gap in a smile.
One option is to have a crown — a fake piece of tooth attached to a small section of real tooth that the dentist has grounded.
However, when a person has lost a tooth or the dentist had to remove it, a crown alone is not an option and a dental bridge may be the best option.
The term “bridge” refers to a structure containing one or more false teeth. The structure is often anchored in place with one or more crowns on either side of the gap in the mouth. For example, if a person is missing several front teeth, due to injury or tooth decay, a doctor may use a bridge to fill the gap.
A person may not wish to have a gap in their teeth after a tooth is removed, for example, because they need a tooth in the chewing area or because of aesthetic concerns.
For some people, a permanent dental implant is an alternative to a bridge. Dental implants are false teeth that dentists surgically place into the bone in the mouth.
For other dentists they recommend implants to help secure a bridge, particularly if many teeth are missing.
A dental bridge can help a person feel more comfortable with their smile. May also give them a chance to chew normally.
When a person loses one or more teeth, it can affect their bite, causing pain or difficulty eating. Replacing these teeth prevents these complications.
A person may need a bridge if:
- a tooth is so worn that it falls out or is removed by the dentist
- an accident or injury damages a tooth beyond repair
- The decay or infection is so deep inside a tooth that neither a filling nor a root canal is enough
Dentists use several types of bridges:
- Traditional bridge it includes two crowns—sometimes called abutments—that anchor the false tooth or teeth. This is the most popular type of bridge and can be fixed or removable.
- A cantilever bridge requires only one crown for support. This involves a less intensive procedure and may be a good option for people who do not want to damage healthy teeth. However, the single crown can act as a lever, increasing the risk of damage to the teeth and jaw.
- Bridges of Maryland they are more conservative and less invasive than traditional or cantilever bridges. The bridge is anchored with metal or porcelain frames that are attached to the backs of the teeth on either side of the gap. These bridges can preserve healthy teeth, but are less secure.
- Implant-supported bridges use dental implants as anchors. This type of bridge is more expensive and invasive but safer.
The specific procedure depends on the type of bridge.
When a person gets a traditional bridge, the process begins by preparing the teeth on either side of the gap. The dentist will grind these teeth, removing any decay. They will then take an impression of the mouth to help fit the bridge.
The dentist will place a temporary bridge over the damaged teeth to protect them. Temporary bridges include structures that look like real teeth, but are not permanent, so it is important to return to the dentist within a few weeks.
Once the actual bridge is ready, which usually takes 2 weeks, the dentist removes the temporary structures and attaches the permanent bridge using a strong adhesive.
On very complex bridges, long span bridges or multiple bridges, it may take a few months to complete. Implant bridges can last up to several months.
If the dentist has the equipment to make crowns and/or bridges in the office, it can be done in one day.
The process is similar for cantilever bridges, although only one tooth will need a crown. A Maryland bridge requires less preparation since there are no crowns involved. Both of these bridges also require at least two appointments.
When a person has implants to support a bridge, the process usually begins with implant surgery. The dentist will then take an impression of the mouth to create a bridge that fits seamlessly over the implants.
A person’s mouth may feel tender and painful after a dentist grinds the teeth. It may also hurt after the bridge is placed. Gums may be sensitive and bleed.
For most people, this pain subsides after a few days. However, the gums may take a few weeks to fully heal from the procedure.
A person can return to work or school as soon as they feel well enough, which is usually the day after the appointment.
People who choose to be sedated during the placement of the bridge should not drive after the procedure.
Anyone with implants may feel sick after waking up from anesthesia. They also should not drive and may need assistance for a day or two after the procedure.
To care for a bridge, it is important to:
- Follow regular oral hygiene to prevent further tooth decay.
- Visit a dentist twice a year to check the bridge and clean the teeth.
- Ask the dentist if it is important to avoid certain foods.
Some complications of a dental bridge can include:
- Bridge failure. The bridge may break or slip out of place. Afterwards, a person may need another bridge, implants, or other dental procedures.
- Pain or problems chewing. Some people have trouble adjusting to chewing with a bridge, especially in the weeks after the procedure. If the bite is not correct, return to the dentist for an adjustment.
- Contamination. Some people develop infections after treatment, especially if they have extensive tooth decay or gum disease.
- Tooth wear. It is possible for a tooth to continue to wear away under the crown that anchors the bridge. This is more common in people with severe gum disease or very severe tooth cavities that require crowns.
To prevent tooth decay around a bridge, it’s important to practice excellent home care, including brushing and flossing. Some floss products are designed for use with bridges.
Working with an experienced dentist and carefully following aftercare instructions can reduce the risk of serious complications.
Worn or missing teeth can affect a person’s appearance, ability to eat certain foods, and quality of life. Dental bridges restore the bite and smile.
All dental prostheses come with risks and benefits. Discuss these factors and all options thoroughly with a dentist before committing to any procedure.
