If you have missing teeth, including front teeth, a dental bridge can help restore the look and function of your teeth. It bridges the gap where the missing tooth is. Talk to a dental professional to find out if it’s right for you. Show
OverviewWhat are dental bridges?If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can fill the gap with one or more artificial (false) teeth. A bridge is typically made of crowns on either side of the missing tooth or teeth supporting the pontic (false tooth) and is cemented in place. Who needs a dental bridge?Dental bridges can help if you have a missing tooth or teeth. The most common causes of missing teeth are tooth decay, gum disease and injury. Or you may have been born with missing teeth due to a congenital condition. To get a dental bridge, you need healthy teeth on either side of the missing ones. Why do I need a dental bridge?Your teeth work together. If a tooth is missing, nearby teeth can move into the empty space. The teeth in your opposite jaw can also move up or down toward the space. This can cause:
What does a dental bridge look like?A typical dental bridge has:
What types of dental bridges are available?The four main types of bridges are:
What can I use instead of a dental bridge?Some people choose partial dentures, which are removable false teeth. You take them out to clean them. You may also be a candidate for a dental implant. An implant is surgically placed in your jaw. Your dentist can help you figure out what the best option is for you. Do I need dental implants?Sometimes, your dentist may recommend a dental implant instead of a bridge. A dental lab creates new teeth based on a model of your mouth. A surgeon places the implant in your jaw. Over time, the implants integrate with the jawbone and are connected to the new teeth. An advantage of implants is that they don’t need support from the other teeth. How common are dental bridges?Dental bridges are a common solution for missing teeth. Dentists have used them for many years. Procedure DetailsWhat happens during a procedure for a traditional dental bridge?You’ll typically need at least two appointments:
Risks / BenefitsWhat are the advantages of this procedure?A dental bridge can:
Do dental bridges have any risks or complications?If you care for your bridge properly, it can last many years without complications. The bridge may fail if the surrounding teeth decay or if the cement deteriorates. If the bridge comes loose and the supporting teeth are still healthy and intact, your provider may be able to re-attach it with new cement. Recovery and OutlookHow long do dental bridges last?Dental bridges can last at least five to seven years. With good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, the bridge may last more than 10 years. Is it hard to eat with a dental bridge?People often find the opposite is true — replacing the missing teeth makes it easier to eat. You may prefer to eat soft foods cut into small pieces until you get used to the bridge. Will the dental bridge change how I speak?If you are missing front teeth, it can be hard to speak clearly. A dental bridge with front teeth in the right place can improve your speech. How do I care for my dental bridge?The success of the dental bridge depends on the health and strength of the remaining teeth. With a bridge, it’s especially important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. For proper tooth and gum care, you should:
When to Call the DoctorWhen should I see my healthcare provider?Have your bridge examined if you notice changes in your bite or chewing becomes uncomfortable. If you have pain, redness, swelling or bleeding around the bridge, contact your healthcare provider. Additional DetailsWhat is the cost of dental bridges?The cost of dental bridges varies. It depends on the type of bridge you have and where you live. If you have dental insurance, it typically pays a percentage of the fee. Coverage will depend on your specific dental plan. A note from Cleveland Clinic Missing teeth can affect how you eat, talk and smile. A dental bridge can restore the look and function of your mouth. Dental bridges, which fill in the gap caused by missing teeth, can last for many years. Maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly for cleanings. Ask your healthcare provider to see if a dental bridge is right for you. Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/01/2020. References
Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information enewsCleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy Related Institutes & ServicesHead & Neck InstituteOur providers specialize in head and neck surgery and oncology; facial plastic and reconstructive surgery; general otolaryngology; laryngology; otology, neurotology and lateral skull base disorders; pediatric otolaryngology; rhinology, sinus and skull base surgery; surgical sleep; dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery; and allied hearing, speech and balance services. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy More health news + infoShow More
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Can a dental bridge be done same day as extraction?The idea behind same-day crowns and bridges are also the same. On the exact day of your tooth extraction, your dentist will replace your tooth with a crown or a bridge, depending upon the requirement. Thus, it is a kind of restorative dentistry that can be performed in a single visit.
How fast can bridges be fitted?This first visit usually takes between 45 and 120 minutes. We generally allow one to two weeks for the technician to create the bridge. The temporary bridge can function in the mouth for a lot longer than this, which means that the permanent bridge can be fitted at a time that is convenient for you.
How soon can you have a bridge after tooth extraction?Can I have a bridge fitted straight after having a tooth removed? It can take up to 6 months for the gums to heal properly after an extraction. In most cases, you may need to wait at least 3 months after an extraction, before a bridge is fitted.
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