What is a Posterior Bridge?
A **posterior dental bridge** is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by "bridging" the gap between existing teeth. This restoration is a common solution for patients who are not candidates for dental implants or who prefer a non-surgical option. A traditional bridge consists of three main components: two **abutment crowns** that are placed on the healthy teeth adjacent to the gap, and a **pontic**, which is the artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills the space. The entire unit is cemented onto the abutment teeth, creating a single, connected restoration.
The Clinical Procedure
The process of getting a posterior dental bridge typically requires two appointments. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the two healthy adjacent teeth, known as the abutment teeth. This involves removing a sufficient amount of the tooth's enamel to make space for the abutment crowns. An impression of the prepared teeth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the bridge is custom-fabricated to match the patient's existing teeth in shape and color. A temporary bridge is then placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain function until the permanent bridge is ready.
At the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed, and the dentist will carefully check the fit, shade, and overall feel of the new, permanent bridge. Once confirmed, the bridge is permanently cemented onto the abutment teeth. A proper fit is crucial to prevent plaque accumulation and ensure the long-term health of the supporting teeth. The final result is a fixed and durable restoration that restores the patient's ability to chew and speak properly.
Key Benefits and Considerations
Dental bridges offer a reliable and time-tested solution for tooth loss. They can be completed in a relatively short timeframe and do not require surgery. However, a significant drawback is that the procedure requires the irreversible preparation of two otherwise healthy teeth to serve as anchors. This can place additional stress on these teeth and make them more susceptible to decay in the future. Additionally, since a bridge does not have a root, it does not stimulate the jawbone beneath the missing tooth, which can lead to bone loss over time. For this reason, implants are often considered the gold standard, but a bridge remains an excellent option in many clinical situations.