A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap between neighboring teeth or dental implants. The artificial tooth or teeth, called pontics, are anchored in place by crowns fitted over adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or by implants placed in the jawbone. By filling the empty space, a dental bridge restores chewing ability, speech clarity, and the natural appearance of the smile while also preventing nearby teeth from shifting out of position. Before placing a bridge, the dentist evaluates the surrounding teeth and takes X-rays to ensure they are healthy enough to support the restoration. For traditional bridges, the teeth on either side of the gap are reshaped so crowns can fit securely over them. An impression is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the custom bridge is fabricated as a single connected unit. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the teeth while the permanent one is made. There are several types of dental bridges, chosen based on tooth location, bite forces, and overall oral health. Traditional bridges use crowns on both sides of the missing tooth, while cantilever bridges rely on a single supporting tooth when only one adjacent tooth is available. Maryland (resin-bonded) bridges use metal or ceramic wings bonded to the backs of neighboring teeth and are commonly used for front teeth where less force is applied. Implant-supported bridges replace missing teeth without relying on natural teeth, instead using dental implants for support. Once the permanent bridge is cemented in place, it functions much like natural teeth. Patients can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, though proper oral hygiene is essential. Special flossing techniques or floss threaders are needed to clean beneath the pontic and prevent gum disease or decay around the supporting teeth. With good care, dental bridges typically last 5 to 15 years or longer, making them a reliable and long-standing solution for tooth replacement.