A bridge is used to replace a missing tooth. It uses teeth on either side of the missing tooth for support. A bridge is usually made of ceramic or a composite material. It is very important to replace a missing tooth to prevent a process called “over-eruption”. When a missing tooth is not replaced, there is no structure holding the opposing tooth in place. As a result, the opposing tooth begins to slowly move into the empty space, altering your bite and potentially exposing the roots of the over-erupted tooth. With the CAD/CAM bridge, your doctor uses state of the art technology to image your teeth in 3D, which feeds into a computer to aid in designing the restoration. This technology makes it possible for you to complete your bridge in a single appointment. Next, the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are prepared to make room for the bridge. They will become the support structure for your new tooth. Next, the prepared teeth are scanned and creation of the bridge begins. It is then milled, right in your doctor’s office, while you wait. Once the bridge is ready, your doctor will make final adjustments and cement it into place. Once completed, the area is now restored to optimal function and appearance.
