An Introduction to Dental Bridges, by Dr. Charles Silk DDS

Based in New York City, Dr. Charles Silk DDS has treated thousands of patients. Dr. Charles Silk DDS specializes in cosmetic and implant dentistry and offers a wide range of procedures, including veneers, bonding, whitening, Invisalign, and dental bridges. Here he explains the basics of dental bridges and their use in oral health.

Dental bridges are designed to fill a space left by one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of two crowns, one on the tooth on each side of the gap. Called abutment teeth, these two teeth support false teeth called pontics on the foundation of the two crowns. Pontics can be made from a wide range of materials, including porcelain, alloys, and gold. Bridges can rest on either natural teeth or implants, depending on the patient’s unique situation.

Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge restores the appearance of the patient’s smile, maintains the normal shape of the face, and allows patients to chew and speak normally. Bridges can also correct the bite, distributing pressure evenly and preventing other teeth from moving into the gap.

Dental bridges require two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the abutment teeth for their crowns by recontouring them and removing a portion of the enamel in order to make space for the crown. After the teeth have been prepared, the dentist takes an impression of the patient’s mouth to build the custom bridge, pontics, and crowns to fit precisely. The doctor then fits a temporary bridge to protect the patient’s teeth and gums while the bridge is made.

On a second visit, the dentist removes the temporary bridge and adjusts the permanent bridge to fit properly. Usually, the dentist begins by temporarily cementing the dental bridge in place to allow a few weeks in which to ensure a perfect fit before cementing the framework and bridge permanently.