Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a definitive replacement for one or more missing teeth.

What is a dental bridge?

A bridge is an effective and long-lasting, fixed replacement for missing teeth. A conventional bridge is comprised of a prosthetic tooth fixed between two crowns that are bonded to the adjacent teeth. Bridges are virtually invisible, being custom-made to match the appearance of your existing teeth. With meticulous self-care and regular follow ups, a dental bridge can last 10 years or more. 

What are the benefits of a dental bridge?

• Restore confidence in your smile.
• Prevent adjacent and opposing teeth from shifting and tilting into space.
• Help restore function with eating and speaking.
• Evenly distribute biting forces to prevent further damage to any teeth.

What is the treatment for a dental bridge?

Thorough examination and treatment planning are first required before commencing treatment for any bridgework. If it has been decided by your dentist that it is the most suitable option then:

First appointment:

Treatment may be carried out under local anaesthetic to ensure the area is numb to minimise discomfort.

Your dentist will first prepare the supporting teeth on either side of the missing tooth. For a conventional bridge, the adjacent teeth are shaped in preparation to receive dental crowns which will act to support the bridge. The shade of your teeth will be taken so that the prosthesis made will match the existing shade of your teeth to make it integrate seamlessly into your smile.

Impressions of your teeth are then taken from which the crowns and bridge will be made and a temporary bridge provided to protect the prepared teeth until your next appointment.

Our dental lab will custom make your new bridge to match your natural teeth for shade and shape.  Porcelain is a popular choice for its natural tooth colour. 

Second appointment:

The second appointment will be approximately two weeks later, where your dentist will first need to remove the temporary bridge placed before trying in the definitive bridge sent back from the lab and cementing it into place. Any adjustments required for the bridge may also be done at this stage also.

Is a dental bridge right for me?

To be a strong and durable replacement for missing teeth, a dental bridge treatment relies on the integrity and health of adjacent teeth which will require first a thorough examination including x-rays. However, a bridge may not necessarily be the most suitable option for every patient due to a number of factors, however, if this is the case, then one your dentist will discuss other viable options to find one which will best suit you. If you have already had dental restoration work or oral health issues, a dental bridge may not be the most suitable option. In this case, your dentist will consider other treatment options.