Bridges
Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring a replacement tooth, or teeth, to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the space, restoring a complete smile and a more even bite. At Brighton Family Dentistry in Brooklyn, NY, bridges are one option we discuss as part of a broader approach to restorative dentistry.
When a Bridge May Be Recommended
- Missing teeth — gaps from extraction, injury, or decay can affect chewing and speech over time.
- Shifting teeth — neighboring teeth can drift into an open space, which a bridge helps prevent.
- Uneven bite — a gap can change how upper and lower teeth meet, and a bridge helps restore that balance.
Types of Bridges
- Tooth-supported bridge — anchored using crowns placed on the natural teeth next to the gap.
- Implant-supported bridge — anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, often considered when nearby teeth are healthy and best left untouched.
What to Expect
Building a bridge typically involves preparing the supporting teeth or implants, taking impressions, and fitting a custom-made restoration. Depending on your situation, this may be discussed alongside related services such as crowns, dental implants, or bone grafting. If you're considering a bridge to replace missing teeth, we're glad to talk through what fits your needs.
This content is for general information only and isn't dental or medical advice. Talk with your dentist or orthodontist about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.