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Bridges
are used to bridge between two teeth that have a
gap left by a missing tooth.
Why
should missing teeth be replaced?
Appearance and better function of the mouth. The gap left by a
missing tooth can mean greater strain is put on the teeth on each
side. The bite can be affected because the teeth on each side of
the missing tooth can lean into the gap and alter the way the upper
and lower teeth meet. Food can get into the gap and decay and gum
disease will develop.
How
are missing teeth replaced?
The
placement of missing teeth depends on the location
of the gaps and the condition of the remaining teeth.
There are a few options to replace missing teeth. A
bridge is usually used where fewer teeth need replacing.
An implant can be placed into the gap of the missing
tooth or a partial denture.
How
are bridges made?
A
bridge is made by constructing crowns on the teeth
on either side of the space, and joining these two
crowns together by placing a false tooth in the space.
The procedure is the same as the crown procedure. The
end result is very aesthetic and functional.
Bridges are fixed, or non-removable prosthesis constructed
to replace one or more missing teeth.
The teeth on either side of the existing space are
used to anchor the bridge to restore functionality
as well as aesthetics.
We are now able to construct beautiful porcelain over
metal as well as full porcelain and resin-based bridges
to produce the best results for each particular situation.

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The missing tooth in this picture
could be replaced with a bridge. |

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The teeth either side of the gap are prepared
for crowns that will support a bridge across
the gap.
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Here, the finished bridge has been placed
in the mouth using permanent glue.
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