What is a dental bridge? When teeth are missing and there are teeth on either side of the space a bridge can replace the missing teeth. When there has been the loss of a tooth or teeth and there is a tooth on either side of the open space, replacement teeth can be attached to two crowns constructed for the 2 teeth on either side of the open space. This is called a bridge because it bridges the open space. Why do I need a bridge? When a tooth is lost 5 or more other teeth may drift so it is essential to place a replacement tooth as soon as possible. The space left from missing teeth may cause one of several problems. Teeth may drift into the space changing your bite, this changed bite may result in sore jaws, gum disease, or decay (due to more difficult hygiene). What are dentures? A Denture is a set of false teeth. Dentures have been around for many years. The earliest form of denture was introduced more than 2,000 years ago. Today, dentures are of better quality and are more comfortable than ever before. Modern dentures can be made of acrylic, fiberglass, metal, or a combination of these materials. A denture is generally made to replace missing teeth that are not possible to replace by a fixed bridge. Replacing missing teeth has substantial benefits for your health and your appearance. A fixed bridge is superior to a removable denture because it is anchored more securely is less bulky, and places less stress on the underlying gums. It easier to chew food and speak naturally. However, there are situations when it is technically not possible to make a bridge. Are there different types of dentures? A complete denture, also called a full denture, replaces all the natural teeth and provides support for cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person appear older. Complete dentures can be either "conventional" or "immediate" according to when they are made and when they are inserted into the mouth. A partial denture replaces some teeth. Conventional dentures are made and inserted after the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Healing may take several months. Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. To make this possible, the dentist takes measurements and makes the models of the patient's jaws during a preliminary visit. An advantage of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink over time, especially during the period of healing in the first six months after the removal of teeth. When gums shrink, immediate dentures may require rebasing or relining to fit properly.