Over the past decade there have been many developments in the field of adhesive bridgework, a conservative treatment option for the patient with intact and unrestored abutment teeth. However, many situations still exist where resin bond retained bridges are unsuitable and more conventional techniques are called for. Although adhesive bridges are potentially less damaging to tooth structure, conventional bridgework has greater implications in terms of damage to abutment teeth and surrounding tissues. It is important to execute a carefully devised treatment plan skillfully if problems are to be avoided. This paper, the first in a series of 5 articles offering biologically based, practical guidelines to the dental surgeon, discusses how patients should be selected for these procedures.