Dental Bridges

A bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace a missing tooth (or teeth) by joining a crown permanently to adjacent teeth which will be capped as well.

Bridges can be made for the same materials as crowns and the procedure will be similar. In this case, the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth will be filed down and prepared to support the bridge.

The advantage of a bridge is that is a fixed replacement; unlike dentures for instance. Bridges are more commonly used to restore missing teeth in patients which are not suitable for implant placement and its disadvantage is that the adjacent teeth will have to be prepared and capped in order to support the bridge, whereas the dental implants won’t interfere with the teeth next to the gap. Overall it is a good choice when replacing more missing teeth or joining missing or natural teeth with an implant.

Frequently Asked Questions

A dental bridge is a false tooth used to close or bridge a gap in your mouth due to missing teeth. The false tooth is held in place by using the two teeth on either side of the gap for the structure of the bridge. A bridge can be made out of either porcelain or metal, but most dentists tend to use porcelain as it creates a more natural look. There are four types of dental bridges the traditional bridge, the Maryland bridge, the Cantilever bridge, and an implant-supported bridge.

Dental bridges are most commonly used to fill a gap from a missing tooth. A missing tooth can be caused by injury, tooth decay or gum disease, so having a bridge fitted can be a very common solution as it is a permanent fix. An untreated gap in your mouth could lead to other issues like bite problems and chewing difficulties which could cause you pain from the extra stress on your teeth and jaw, so getting a gap treated is essential for the overall health of your mouth.

The process of getting a dental bridge requires two appointments; the first appointment is focused more on preparing your teeth and making impressions of your teeth. The teeth on either side of the gap in your mouth will need to be prepared for the bridge to be securely bonded to your teeth. This consists of buffing the surface of your teeth to make them almost a bit rough so that the bridge can grip into place. Impressions of your teeth will then be made and sent to a dental technician so they can create your custom-made bridge; they will match the false tooth used for your bridge to the rest of your teeth. At your second appointment, your bridge will be fitted to your teeth and carefully examined to ensure it has the best fit possible.

Bridges are a great solution for missing teeth; they are a permanent fix as well as a non-surgical option. They can be made to look almost identical to your natural teeth, with porcelain being one of the most common materials used to give a natural finish. Dental bridges can also help protect your remaining teeth. When there is a gap in your mouth, your teeth potentially could naturally lean over or move into the space, which could then lead to bite problems and chewing difficulties.

Dental bridges usually last at least five to seven years, their lifespan can be increased to more then ten years if you practise good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.

If your bridge happens to come off, your dentist will be able to place it back where it was. If the teeth used are no longer stable enough, your dentist will most likely recommend re-treating the area with a new restoration or another type of tooth replacement.

After having your bridge fitted, your gums may feel tender and sore, but for most people, the pain and soreness go away after just a few days. Your gums could take a couple of weeks to completely heal from the procedure but practising good oral hygiene helps with the recovery process.

Once your mouth has completely healed, you will be able to smile confidently again, and your smile will be restored.

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