Dental Bridges: What They Are and How They Work
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with a fixed restoration supported by nearby teeth or implants. The design depends on where the gap is and what support is available. It can help restore appearance and chewing, but the supporting teeth and gums must be assessed before a bridge is planned.
What does the dentist assess?
The dentist looks at the gap, adjacent teeth, gums, bite, and available bone. If natural teeth will support the bridge, they may need preparation for crowns. Ask what will happen to those teeth and whether they already need restoration. If the support is weak or the gap is large, another option may be more appropriate.
What happens during treatment?
Planning may include impressions or scans, a discussion of materials, tooth preparation, and a temporary restoration. The final bridge is checked for fit and bite before it is attached. The sequence depends on the design. Ask how many visits are expected and what changes might alter the plan.
Care and alternatives
Cleaning under and around a bridge matters because plaque can collect near the support teeth. The team can show you suitable cleaning tools. An implant or removable denture may also be worth discussing; each has different requirements, time, and maintenance. Read about implants and dentures, then see the restorative service page for clinic care.