Dental bridges literally join the opening caused by one or more missing teeth.  A dental bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth, which are placed on either side of the gap, with a fake tooth in between.  These fake teeth can be made of alloys, gold, silver, porcelain or a mixture of all of the above. Dental bridges are supported by your natural teeth or can also be supported by dental implants.  It is important that you have had good oral hygiene

What to expect?

During the first visit with you cosmetic dentist, the teeth are prepared.  Preparation initially involves the removal of a portion of the enamel allowing room for a crown to be placed over it.  The second step your cosmetic dentist will take is to take an impression of your teeth, which serves as a clay model for the laboratory, who makes your bridge.  Usually, your cosmetic dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to shield the bare teeth and gums, while the laboratory is making your dental bridge. 
During your second visit, your cosmetic dentist will remove your temporary bridge, and your new, permanent dental bridge will be fitted, tested and adjusted for any bite inconsistency.  Sometimes, multiple visits are required to ensure the proper fitting.  If your cosmetic dentist feels it is necessary, he/she may temporary cement your bridge in place, for a couple weeks to ensure it is fitting properly.  This is on a case by case basis, however, majority of cases involve permanent cementing during your second visit. 

Are there different types of Dental Bridges?

There are 3 different types of Dental Bridges. 

• Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are typically made of either ceramics, metal or porcelain.  It involves creating a crown for your tooth or dental implant on either side of the missing tooth.    
• Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. It is also mainly used in areas that are under much less stress, such as your front teeth. 
• Maryland bonded bridges or Resin-Bonded Bridges are less expensive, and are made of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework.

Pros of Dental Bridges:

• Restore your smile, very natural in appearance
• Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
• Distribute your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
• Can last 5-7 years and sometimes longer.  If you practice good oral hygiene, it is usual that you will see a longer life span of your fixed bridge. 
• Only requires 2 visits to your cosmetic dentist

Cons of Dental Bridges:

• Teeth are typically sensitive to very hot or very cold temperatures for about one month after the procedure.  
• If you do not practice good oral hygiene, you can gather bacteria and have both teeth and gums infection.