A bridge is one method of replacing missing teeth. Crowns are prepared on the natural teeth adjacent to the missing teeth and false teeth (pontics) are fused to the crown. The whole unit of crowns and replacement teeth (pontics) is the bridge. It is cemented onto the natural teeth. The bridge is not removable, it stays fixed to the teeth. In the past, this was the highest standard of care for replacing missing teeth and in some cases it still is. Implants can also be considered for tooth replacement.

BeforePresents missing anterior and posterior teeth - lost in an automobile accident

Before
Presents missing anterior and posterior teeth - lost in an automobile accident

9-unit porcelain bridge constructed to replace missing teeth

9-unit porcelain bridge constructed to replace missing teeth

AfterNatural smile after the bridge was complete.

After
Natural smile after the bridge was complete.

Before25 year old female patient with failing anterior bridges

Before
25 year old female patient with failing anterior bridges

AfterReplaced with two porcelain bridges

After
Replaced with two porcelain bridges

Before90 year-old female needed an 8-unit upper Bridge

Before
90 year-old female needed an 8-unit upper Bridge

AfterFinished Smile

After
Finished Smile

BeforeBorn without lateral incisors

Before
Born without lateral incisors

AfterFinished smile with a cantilever bridge

After
Finished smile with a cantilever bridge