Few incidents have greater impact on dental health and personal appearance than tooth loss. When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can drift out of position, which can lead to a change in the bite, the loss of additional teeth, decay, and gum disease.
When tooth loss occurs, your dentist may recommend the placement of a bridge. When placing a bridge, the teeth (abutments) on both sides of the space are covered with crowns (caps/retainers), and an artificial tooth (pontic) is attached to the crowns.
Initially, the dentist prepares teeth on each side of the space to receive crowns and makes an impression of the entire area.
Fits a temporary or transitional bridge made out of plastic or metal.
In a subsequent visit, the dentist:
Removes the temporary bridge, places, adjusts, and cements the fixed bridge.
Be sure to follow the special home care instructions provided by your dental professional.
Source: http://www.dentalcare.com/