Dental Bridges

A missing tooth can lead to a domino effect in your mouth. Surrounding teeth may tilt or drift to fill the gap, causing misalignment. This can increase the risk of decay and gum (periodontal) disease and also impact on your ability to chew.

A dental bridge offers a natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth. Unlike dentures, they are fixed and don't require removal. Custom-made for your smile, dental bridges blend with your existing teeth, restoring both appearance and function.

A bridge is made from ceramic (porcelain). Teeth or implants either side of a gap are utilised to anchor a bridge firmly in place. A conventional bridge involves crowning the teeth either side of the gap with a tooth/teeth suspended between. A Maryland bridge may require little to no preparation of the teeth neighbouring the gap making it a very conservative option in certain situations. Maryland bridges may be appropriate for replacing missing front teeth.

Planning

Initially records such as x-rays, impressions or scans of the mouth may be taken for planning the bridge treatment

Preparation

The teeth are then prepared. This is a similar process to having a filling done

Record

An accurate record of the teeth and surrounding area is taken either through a digital scan or traditional impression

Temporary Bridge

While your permanent bridge is being crafted in a lab (which can take a few weeks), a temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth

• Natural look and feel
• Improved functionality for chewing and speaking
• Enhanced confidence with a complete smile
• Comfortable to wear and easy to get used to
• No need to take in and out of the mouth

With proper care, dental bridges can last a long time - generally between 5 and 15 years, or even longer in some cases. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are key to maintaining good oral hygiene and maximizing the lifespan of your bridge.

There are alternatives to having a bridge. These include partial dentures and dental implants.