A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces a missing tooth by joining an artificial tooth permanently to the adjacent teeth. 

Your teeth work together to help you chew, speak and even smile. If a tooth is lost, the nearby teeth may tilt toward or move up or down near the empty space. This places stress on both the teeth and the tissues in your mouth. This can break down the gum tissues and the bone that hold teeth in place, increasing your risk of gum disease. Dental bridges work to restore stability in the area where a tooth is missing.