When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can shift out of
alignment, which in turn can affect the bite or even produce decay, gum disease,
or the loss of additional teeth. A bridge is a fixed restoration that helps replace
one or more missing teeth. As the name implies, a bridge is a combination of
three or four pieces fitting into the open space in the mouth, therefore “bridging”
the gap. Most bridges are made of a pontic (or false tooth), held together by two
or three crowns. This trio is then cemented to the abutment teeth (the surrounding
teeth on each side of the gap). Bridges are custom made in a dental laboratory,
and require a preparation of the abutment teeth similar to the one necessary
for a crown.

Types of Bridges

• Porcelain Fused to Metal Bridges
  Porcelain bonded bridges are made from porcelain which is fused to
  a precious metal core. The metal core provides additional strength and
  is usually prescribed at the back of the mouth where biting forces are
  higher and aesthetics are not of prime concern.
• All porcelain Bridges
  All porcelain bridges are made from a new porcelain material, which is
  cast from molten porcelain, and then built up to completely recreate the
  missing tooth/teeth. They are usually provided at the front where aesthetics
  are of prime concern and where biting forces are somewhat less.
• Adhesive Bridges
  Adhesive bridges are bonded to adjacent teeth. They are considered
  more conservative since they usually do not involve the drilling of
  adjacent teeth. They can be made of all porcelain, porcelain bonded
  to metal or composite resin.
• All Metal Bridges
  All metal bridges are usually made of a gold alloy. They are used in
  situations where the bite is very tight and there is little clearance
  against the opposite jaw.

After an examination, Dr. Arroyo will recommend the most appropriate bridge for your condition and the location of the missing tooth or teeth.