If you've lost teeth due to an accident, injury, or gum disease, there are several ways to replace them. One way is to create a bridge to replace the missing teeth. (This is not to be confused with a partial denture which is removable). A bridge replaces the missing tooth (or teeth), thereby preventing repositioning of the remaining teeth, which can lead to an altered bite. A bridge can also improve chewing ability and speech articulation, and support facial structures to preserve your appearance.
So what is a Bridge? A bridge is composed of two basic units: the false tooth or teeth (called the pontic) and two or more retainer crowns. The most appropriate style depends on the strength and health of those neighboring teeth, as well as the location of the toothless span in relation to the rest of your dentition. If healthy adjacent "anchor" teeth aren't available, a surgically implanted metal post or dental implant may be an alternate choice. And finally, for a large span of missing teeth, a removable partial denture or implant supported prosthesis may be our recommendation. In any case, with proper care your fixed bridge may last for 8-10 years
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