Dental bridges are an effective way of treating missing teeth. A dental bridge spans the gap where teeth are missing adding a false tooth or pontic as they are also known. 

Dental bridges can be secured to healthy teeth (known as anchor teeth) via crowns on either side of the gap left by the missing teeth. 

There are many benefits to choosing dental bridges when replacing missing teeth. The first is that dental bridges are particularly well suited to patients who are struggling with eating and talking because of the loss of teeth. This is because the bridge essentially replaces the tooth and so restores the mouth’s proper structure. 

Secondly, when well taken care of dental bridges can be incredibly robust and long-lasting. Indeed, with regular professional cleanings, and good oral hygiene you can expect your dental bridge to last for 10 years or more. 

One of the most crucial aspects that contributes to the longevity of a dental bridge is that you care for it correctly. This is because a dental bridge heavily relies on the teeth on either side of it for support. To that end, you must do everything you can to maintain good oral hygiene including flossing, using mouthwash, brushing regularly and attending all your checkup and cleaning appointments. 

The procedure for dental bridges usually spans more than one appointment. This is because the teeth that will support your bridge first need to be prepared. To do this your dentist will take impressions of these teeth, and then create crowns. It usually takes a few weeks for the crowns to be crafted. 

Once completed, your dentist will fit the crowns to your supporting teeth. This will be done by using dental cement for a solid and reliable bond. 

After the crowns are fitted, a dental bridge can then be installed. Your dentist will test the fit of your bridge by doing this first with temporary cement. Once you have gone a few weeks and you are sure the fit is right, your dentist will be able to use permanent cement and complete the process.