For the replacement of missing teeth, dental bridges offer long-term functional and aesthetic benefits.
Bridges are just one of a range of treatments that restore that space left by missing teeth. Furthermore, they assist in maintaining the position of healthy teeth and improve your smile.
A bridge is where two crowns are joined together with a false tooth to close a space. The abutments of the bridge are held by the teeth on either side of the gap.
The bridge is made in a laboratory after impressions have been taken of the two prepared teeth on either side of the gap.
Your dentist will discuss:
- All your options for closing the gap
- The risks (if any) associated with each option
- The cost of all the options
The use of bridges can prevent the cycle of problems that occur when a tooth is missing, such as shifting or drifting of the remaining teeth. In contrast to dentures, a replacement tooth is permanently affixed to a healthy tooth structure using crowns or dental implants, which provide the highest support and stability.
The bridge is made up of porcelain teeth connected to a metal core, ensuring it looks as natural as possible whilst providing strength. The materials used are durable and robust and designed to function the same way as your natural teeth.
Additionally, zirconia and gold bridges are available, as well as in-surgery bridges such as StickTeck® for cost-effective treatment options. Our dental team will conduct a discussion of all options during your comprehensive examination, as well as an explanation of each material’s benefits.
A dental bridge is suitable in some cases when a tooth has been removed. It is important to wait for a period of up to 6 months post-extraction for any bone and gum shrinkage to cease before having a bridge made. In the meantime, you will be offered a temporary cosmetic solution such as a denture.
As part of your initial consultation we will check neighbouring teeth and gums are healthy, as root canal treated teeth or ongoing gum disease does not make an ideal foundation for a dental bridge.
As with all dental treatment, your dentist will discuss any risk factors with you as part of your initial consultation.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
A robust oral hygiene regime will help the longevity of your bridge and surrounding tissues. When brushing and flossing, pay particular attention to your dental bridge, along with the surrounding gum tissue.
Superfloss and interdental brushes should be used underneath the “dummy” (prosthetic) tooth and around the supporting teeth to maintain gum health and prevent decay around the margins of your bridge. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use interdental brushes and Superfloss to do this.
