Your Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge is one or more replacement teeth attached to the natural teeth next to them. Once it's in place, the bridge is not removed. A bridge can be made of metal, tooth-colored porcelain, or a combination of the two. Your dentist will suggest the best material for your mouth. There are two main types of bridges: conventional and resin-bonded.

What Happens After Tooth Loss?

Spaces left by missing teeth affect the rest of your teeth. These gaps can cause chewing problems. If even one tooth is missing, other teeth may slowly shift out of place. This changes the way your teeth fit together (your bite). A poor bite may make your jaw sore. Your teeth may become harder to clean, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. And shifting of teeth following tooth loss may change your smile. But a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. A bridge makes it easier to chew, improves your appearance, and keeps your teeth, gums, and jaws healthy.

The Procedure

It will take two or more visits to prepare and fit your bridge.

Preparing Your Teeth

For a conventional bridge, the teeth on either side of the space to be filled must be reshaped to hold crowns that support the bridge. Limited reshaping is necessary with the resin-bonded bridge. For either bridge, impressions of your teeth are taken and used to make your bridge. This process takes several weeks.

Fitting Your Bridge

When it's ready, your dentist places the bridge on your teeth and adjusts it until it fits and feels right. The bridge is then cemented or bonded into place. If you have any problems over the next few days, call your dentist.