Figure 1. A normal, healthy set of teeth.

Figure 2. Several things can occur if a tooth is missing and there is no bridge for support.

In a normal, healthy mouth, your teeth have a natural balance. Each upper tooth contracts the corresponding lower tooth, allowing for a well-balanced chewing function. Losing a tooth quickly destroys this balance.

A functional mouth has 28 teeth (14 upper and 14 lower). They work as a team. Each tooth has three or four companion teeth: the neighboring teeth, and one or two biting partners in the opposite arch. These companion teeth provide support and stability.

Drifting, shifting, periodontal disease, and abnormal decay areas are some of the problems that can occur when your tooth loses the support of a companion. Statistics suggest that this neighbor tooth will be lost next. Then, the next closest neighbor is subjected to the same conditions. With each lost tooth, the problems are magnified. They cycle continues.

In Figure 2, a lower molar has been lost. Its neighbors and biting partners are jeopardized. This is what can happen:

1. The opposing molar may super-erupt.
2. The unprotected ridge is subject to trauma.
3. The neighbor teeth tilt, destroying proper functional balance.
4. Drifting teeth create food impact areas where decay starts.
5. Drifting teeth increase the risk of periodontal disease.
6. Bone is destroyed as teeth drift and tip.

1. Replace missing teeth.
2. Help balance a normal bite.
3. Help prevent unnatural stress on the dental ridge.
4. Prevent over-eruption of opposing teeth.
5. Prevent drift and tilt of adjacent teeth.
6. Help prevent formation of decay in abnormal areas.
7. Help retard the onset of periodontal disease.

Figure 4. Then, the completed fixed bridge is cemented in place to restore that natural balance.