Bridges
Bridges
Dental bridges are false teeth used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. They’re supported by the natural teeth on either side of the space. The replacement tooth — known as a pontic — is typically made from porcelain, alloys, or gold, and is held in place by crowns fitted to the neighbouring teeth. These crowns act as anchors, securely ‘bridging’ the gap.
There are three main types of dental bridges:
- Traditional fixed bridge – The most common type, this bridge features a pontic held between two crowns that are fixed to the teeth (or implants) on either side. The pontic is usually made of porcelain fused to metal or all-ceramic. This type of bridge is fixed in place and cannot be removed.
- Resin-bonded bridge (Maryland bridge) – Often used for front teeth, especially when the adjacent teeth are healthy and don’t have large fillings. The pontic is made of porcelain and attached to metal wings or bands, which are bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth using a strong, tooth-coloured resin. These are less invasive and usually don’t require reshaping of the supporting teeth.
- Cantilever bridge – Used when there are only teeth on one side of the gap. This bridge supports the pontic using one or more adjacent teeth on just one side, and is usually best suited for areas of the mouth with lower biting pressure, such as the front teeth.
When Are Dental Bridges Needed?
Dental bridges are often recommended when one or more teeth are missing. Replacing missing teeth is important for several reasons, including:
- Enhancing the appearance of your smile
- Reducing strain on the surrounding teeth
- Preventing nearby teeth from shifting into the gap, which can affect your bite
- Helping to avoid gum disease and tooth decay by stopping food from getting trapped in the space
How Are Dental Bridges Fitted?
First appointment:
To begin, your dentist will numb the area with a mild anaesthetic to make the procedure comfortable. The teeth on either side of the gap are gently trimmed to create space for crowns, which will hold the bridge in place. An impression is then taken using dental putty — this is sent to the lab to create your custom-made bridge and crowns.
In the meantime, a temporary bridge is fitted to protect the prepared teeth and gums. Your dentist may also use a Vita shade guide to choose the right colour for your bridge, matching it as closely as possible to your natural teeth, skin tone, hair colour, and even eye colour for the most natural result.
Second appointment:
At your next visit, the temporary bridge is removed and the new permanent bridge is carefully placed. The dentist will check the fit and how your bite feels, making any necessary adjustments. The bridge is then fixed in place using dental cement.
In some cases, your bridge may be temporarily cemented for a couple of weeks to ensure everything feels right before it’s permanently secured. Follow-up appointments are often arranged to make sure the fit remains comfortable and the bite is correct.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
With proper care and good oral hygiene, dental bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years — sometimes even longer. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular dental check-ups will help keep your bridge in great condition for years to come.
How To Take Care Of Your Dental Bridge
Looking after your dental bridge is essential to keep it in good condition and protect your overall oral health. Here are a few simple tips:
- Maintain good oral hygiene – Clean your bridge and the area underneath the false tooth every day to help prevent decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It’s especially important to keep the supporting teeth healthy, as they act as the foundation for your bridge.
- Brush and floss daily – Brush twice a day and use floss to clean underneath the bridge. A special bridge floss threader can help you get into hard-to-reach areas. Use both hands to gently move the floss back and forth, making sure to clean from one end of the bridge to the other.
- Watch your diet – Stick to soft foods or smaller pieces while you get used to your bridge. A balanced, nutritious diet will support both your general health and your dental wellbeing.
What Are The Advantages Of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges offer a natural-looking way to replace missing teeth, helping to restore your smile, improve your bite, and even correct speech issues that can occur when teeth are lost. They’re a relatively quick solution — usually completed in just two appointments — and with good oral hygiene, a bridge can last 10 to 15 years or more.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Dental Bridges?
You may experience some mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks for a few weeks after your bridge is fitted, but this usually settles down with time. It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene, as the teeth and gums around the bridge can be more prone to infection if bacteria from food and plaque build up. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will help keep everything healthy.
Arrange An Appointment
If you’d like to book an appointment or just have a few questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the practice.