Bridges

If a tooth is lost, it is important to replace it with a false (or artificial) tooth as soon as possible. This procedure will prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of line and causing other problems. A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth and is held firmly in place by healthy teeth on each side of the missing one(s). You cannot remove a bridge. It is permanent. A tooth on either side of the space is needed to support the bridge. These teeth are referred to as the abutment teeth. The abutment teeth are prepared by reducing the tooth structure around and on top of the tooth. This creates space for the bridge to fit over the abutment teeth. An impression is then taken of the teeth and sent to a lab. The lab then uses the impression to create a bridge that is custom to your teeth. This process takes about one week. You will leave the office with a temporary bridge made by the dentist at chair side. This temporary will protect the teeth from sensitivity and shifting while your permanent bridge is being made. A bridge should last for about 10 years, if you take good care of it. Your dentist will show you how to use a floss threader to floss under and around the false tooth (or teeth) in the middle of the bridge.