A bridge is a functional way to close the gap between one point and another. A dental bridge serves much the same purpose in your mouth: it literally “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Unlike removable devices such as dentures, dental bridge work is cemented onto natural teeth or dental implants on either side of a missing tooth. These anchor teeth are called abutments. The replacement tooth — called a pontic — is attached to a dental crown on each abutment.

A bridge can last more than 10 years, especially if you practice good oral hygiene. If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge procedure might be the right dental treatment for you.