A dental bridge, employed to fill a gap caused by one or more missing teeth, typically consists of a false tooth (pontic) anchored by two or more crowns on the adjacent teeth (abutment teeth). The pontic can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of both, meticulously shaded to match the surrounding natural teeth. The crowns, which provide structural support, are cemented onto the prepared abutment teeth, effectively holding the pontic in place and restoring the continuity of the dental arch. A completed fixed bridge appears as a single, unified structure once cemented, mimicking the appearance of natural, uninterrupted dentition.
The utilization of a dental restoration of this type offers numerous advantages. It restores the ability to chew and speak properly, prevents adjacent teeth from shifting out of position, and maintains the natural contours of the face. Historically, tooth loss was often addressed with removable dentures; however, fixed bridges provide a more stable and aesthetically pleasing solution, significantly improving the patient’s quality of life and self-esteem. Furthermore, these restorations contribute to proper bite distribution, preventing excessive stress on remaining teeth and the temporomandibular joint.