Dental bridge

A dental bridge is a permanent prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) attached to adjacent teeth (abutments). The dental bridge procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient treatment involving a clinical history, physical exam, and dentist consultation. It also includes a panoramic X-ray, CT scan, and 3D computer planning for diagnosis. The treatment includes abutment teeth preparation by reducing their size and covering them with dental crowns to keep the pontics in place. Impressions of the teeth are then taken to create a model of the patient's mouth, which is sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the bridge. A temporary bridge could be put in to protect the teeth holding the bridge in place. When the permanent bridge is ready, the final fitting is performed. The dentist will check the bridge's fit and color to match the patient's natural teeth. Once everything is satisfactory, the bridge is fixed. Post-procedure care with symptomatic treatment with recommendations is performed. A dental bridge improves the patient's ability to eat and speak comfortably and confidently. It fills the gap left by missing teeth and prevents the remaining from shifting out of place.