Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Dental bridges use crowns to form a ‘bridge’ between healthy teeth on either side. They are made from a variety of materials and are crafted to look exactly like natural teeth.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a restorative procedure that your dentist may recommend if you have had a tooth or teeth removed. The teeth on either side of the gap are fitted with crowns to hold an artificial tooth in place between them. You might also need a dental implant to anchor the bridge in place.
Why do I need a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is an option to replace missing teeth.
A bridge is most suitable if you have healthy teeth on either side of missing teeth. Your dentist will explain the process and check if a bridge with our without an implant is a suitable option for you.
Using our latest CEREC digital technology, we can usually fit dental bridges without the need for a temporary bridge. We can make the crowns to fit the bridge while you wait.
Alternatives to dental bridges include dental implants (no bridge) or removable false teeth (dentures or partial dentures).
Treatment process for a dental bridge
What to expect at your appointment for a dental bridge:
The first step is to check your mouth and gums to ensure the space left by the missing tooth is healthy. We will treat any gum disease or tooth decay.
The teeth next to the gap will be reshaped to prepare for their crowns. We have many anaesthetic options to keep you comfortable during this stage.
Using our digital scanner we will take 3D images of your teeth so we can make your new crowns to the exact dimensions.
Our dentist will then match the colour and features of your existing teeth to ensure the dental bridge is the perfect match for your smile.
Finally, the new bridge will be fitted to your teeth and fixed in place with dental cement.
The process is more involved if you need to have a dental implant to support the bridge. You can read more about dental implants here. [INSERT LINK]
How long do bridges last?
Bridges are designed to stay in the mouth permanently (ie not be removed) and be looked after like normal teeth. Their success is usually dependant on being able to maintain strong, healthy teeth around them. When properly cared for, dental bridges can last for many years.
