Where a tooth is missing and an unsightly dark space spoils a smile line, a bridge may be considered. A tooth next to the gap is prepared to support  the bridge tooth. In some cases minimal preparation may be used and a bridge with only a small retentive wing may be glued into place. Bridges are often held in place by a single crown like preparation where a tooth is reduced to a peg shape. Longer bridges may involve several teeth.   A pleasant smile reveals an unsightly gap. The tooth behind the gap has a large black filling. Preparation of the filled tooth allows the fitting of a simple, yet effective bridge. An accident caused the loss of teeth in this case. It looked tricky when this new patient walked in but... ...previous treatment has complicated the case, and there is decay on the inside of the remaining teeth. The final bridge in place has restored the smile and this patient is now happy with his new dentist.   Great. I usually disguise my work to look natural and harmonise with the mouth. But here a gold tooth restores this space. The gold tooth has a little wing which is glued onto the tooth behind. The bridge is permanent and has needed only minimal preparation.