If you have a missing tooth or a group of adjacent missing teeth, dental bridges can help hide, correct, and fill the gap with dentures. Dental bridges can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth and consist of two main parts: a pontic and a crown. A pontic is the actual false tooth or set of false teeth that replaces the missing tooth. The crown or crowns — depending on your dental needs — are located to the left and right of the denture.

Dental bridges work by connecting the crowns of the dental bridge to the teeth immediately adjacent to the gap. These adjacent teeth are known as abutment teeth and provide support for your new dental bridge. Depending on your dental needs, your doctor will recommend a removable dental bridge or a fixed/permanent dental bridge, which can be made of different materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, gold, or a metal alloy. There are several types of dental bridges available, including:

• Traditional dental bridges
• Cantilever dental bridges
• Maryland bonded dental bridges
• Implant-supported bridges
• Dental bridges can help:
• Replace teeth
• Improve the appearance and health of your smile
• Protect the bony structures of your face
• Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of position
• Correct problems that affect your bite
• Reduce the risk of temporomandibular joint disorder

Dental bridges are made from a variety of materials:

1- All-ceramic bridge

These are the most attractive and natural-looking, but they are not as strong as others. They are the best cosmetic choice for front teeth.

2- Porcelain fused to metal

These are tooth-colored and stronger than all-ceramic bridges because they have a metal core. However, they are not as natural-looking.