What is a bridge?
A bridge is a means of replacing missing teeth using the neighbouring teeth as supporting structures.
Bridges are usually done by trimming teeth on either side of a missing tooth like in crowns. The crowns made are joined together by adding a tooth in between. The resulting structure is called a bridge. Like crowns, they are also fabricated in a laboratory utilizing the same materials and then fitted in the mouth.
Maintenance care for bridges is similar to that for crowns. The focus is on regular flossing, brushing as well as regular checkups.
Can all missing teeth be replaced by bridges?
Bridges can be used to replace a small number of missing teeth if the neighbouring teeth are sufficiently strong.
The number of missing teeth, condition of the neighbouring teeth, condition of the supporting gums and bone are all important factors which need to be assessed by your dentist prior to making a bridge.
Your dentist will also be able to advise on alternative methods of replacing missing teeth after a clinical examination.