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times, it is preferable to close small gaps between
teeth called diastemas for cosmetic reasons. Simply
by bonding resins to these teeth or by using porcelain
veneers, such gaps can be eliminated.
Missing teeth, however, result in larger gaps
that may best be corrected with bridges. As the
name implies, a bridge is joined to supports,
usually natural teeth, on either side and carries
the replacement tooth or teeth in-between.
Bridges are usually at least three teeth in length
but can also be made to rehabilitate the entire
upper or lower dental arch with up to fourteen
teeth.
The outcome of bridgework is an aesthetic natural
appearance with strong, stable teeth which function
as well, if not better, than one's original teeth.
Often, the result is so ideal that patients who
may have had to lose all of their remaining teeth
can be given a whole new opportunity to enjoy
beautiful, healthy teeth for an entire lifetime.
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