If you are missing several teeth, you may have issues chewing or even speaking. While these challenges may seem difficult and impossible to fix, a great solution to missing teeth is a dental bridge.
Dental bridges are used to restore your smile by filling in gaps. They are often called fixed partial dentures. Bridges are designed to meet your smile needs and fill in gaps whether they are next to each other or on the opposite sides of your mouth. They can be made of gold, alloys, or (usually) porcelain and are typically attached to the surrounding teeth for support.
Some bridges are removable and others are fixed. A fixed bridge is attached to teeth and can only be removed by your dentist. A removable bridge is more similar to dentures in the way that it can be removed from your mouth for cleaning or sleep.
A fixed dental bridge will adhere to the artificial teeth and will directly attach to the jaw or gum tissues. Dental bridges can be a good alternative to an implant, especially because they work for a variety of missing teeth.
The key to a healthy and long-lasting dental bridge is a healthy foundation. Keeping your teeth strong through brushing and flossing regularly is important in maintaining the bridge and the surrounding teeth.