Bridges
Like implants and dentures, bridges are an option for replacing missing teeth. A bridge is fixed and does not come out like dentures do. A bridge has crowns (abutments) on each side of the gap to anchor the ‘false’ tooth or teeth that fill the missing space (pontics).
Bridges are an esthetic, functional option and can:
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Dental bridges last approximately ten years, but good oral care is necessary. Brushing, flossing under the pontic space and regular dental visits improve the longevity of dental bridges. Bridges are only as strong as the weakest unit. Therefore, if decay occurs on any portion of the bridge, the entire bridge is usually replaced.