A bridge is a device used to replace missing teeth, and attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. Bridges are either permanently attached (fixed bridges), or they can be removable. Fixed bridges are applied by either placing crowns on the abutment teeth or by bonding the artificial teeth directly to the abutment teeth. Removable bridges are attached to the teeth with metal clasps or by precision attachments.
Oral functionality and appearance are important reasons for getting a bridge. A bridge also helps support your lips and cheeks - the loss of a back tooth may cause your mouth to sink and your face to look older. But dental health is the most important reason for a bridge. Teeth were designed to complement each other. Unusual stresses are placed on the gums and other oral tissues when teeth are missing, causing a number of potentially harmful disorders, including gum disease. And missing teeth can cause speech disorders, as they are used to make many of the sounds we use to speak clearly.