An abutment is the term that dentists use for the part of a dental bridge that goes over an anchor tooth. Most dental bridges include three teeth. To replace a missing tooth with a bridge, the dentist has to prepare the two adjacent teeth for dental crowns. Instead of constructing two individual crowns, the dental laboratory technician places a false tooth in between the two crowns and connects all three of them together.

          The false crown with no tooth under it is called a bridge pontic and each dental crown that hold the pontic in place is called a bridge abutment. This is an ancient design and has been used for hundreds of years. The natural anchor tooth has to be prepared by reducing it in minitature and then constructing a crown cover. This is done at a dental laboratory.

          In the past decade or so, instead of cutting down each supporting abutment tooth, many dentists are choosing to place dental implants into the bone in the area of the missing tooth. Since dental bridges usually have to be replaced every seven to ten years, the idea of conserving the natural teeth and using the bone is a good idea. Considering that most dental implants last for decades, this alternative is worth investigating.

          Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, is a cosmetic dentist in Atlanta and practices with the Atlanta Dental Group PC. He loves designing beautiful bridges that create the illusion that the abutment and pontic teeth are natural. This is especially important when a bridge is being made in the area where a patient smiles. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. For a free cosmetic consultation call 404-874-7428.