Dental bridges, like partial dentures, are used to replace missing teeth. Bridges unlike partial dentures are fixed prosthesis that are attached to adjoining teeth for support, and are used, both for cosmetic and functional purposes; they are usually much more comfortable and pleasant than partial dentures. Unlike removable partial denture which you can take out and clean daily, bridges are cemented onto existing teeth or implants, and can only be removed by a dentist. A bridge may be recommended if you're missing one or more teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint disorders.

There are several types of fixed dental bridges, including conventional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges and resin-bonded bridges. Typically, conventional and cantilever bridges require shaping of the teeth surrounding a missing tooth. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments. As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. A resin-bonded bridge requires less preparation of adjacent teeth. It is often used to replace front teeth, provided that the gums are healthy and the surrounding teeth do not have extensive dental fillings. However porcelain or ceramic bridges are better and stronger, they can be made to matched the colour of your natural teeth and give you the pleasant appearance you desire.

Ceramic fused to metal bridge