A permanent dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth.  A bridge is usually made of a gold alloy covered with tooth colored porcelain.  Bridges are sometimes called fixed partial dentures.  A conventional bridge is made up of two crowns linked by a "fake" or replacemtnt tooth.  The natural teeth on both sides of the gap are shaped so that crowns can fit over them.  These teeth support the replacement tooth and bear the pressure of chewing.  The bridge is permanently cemented in place to give you a great cosmetic tooth replacement and proper chewing function.  With proper care a bridge will probably last many years.