Dental Bridges

A dental bridge can help restore the look and function of your teeth if you have lost teeth, including front teeth. It fills the space left by tooth loss for a natural-looking smile.

What is a Bridge?

A dental bridge can replace the gap left by one or more lost teeth with one or more artificial (fake) teeth. A bridge is generally cemented and composed of crowns on either side of the missing tooth or teeth that support the pontic (fake tooth). Bridges are treated as not only functional but aesthetic prosthetics and come in various shades to match your natural tooth colour.

Why do I need a dental bridge?

Your teeth are interrelated. If a tooth is lost, neighbouring teeth may migrate into the unfilled area. Your opposing jaw’s teeth can likewise shift up and down toward the gap – this can result in:

• Bite issues.
• Chewing problems.
• Pain from the additional strain on your teeth and jaw.
• Self-consciousness about your appearance or your grin.

What types of dental bridges are available?

The four main types of bridges are:

• Traditional bonded bridge: This is the most prevalent type of bridge. It is made up of two or more crowns and a filler tooth or teeth that are all linked together. The bridge is held in place by the crowns. Metal, porcelain bonded to metal, or ceramics are used to construct traditional bridges.
• Cantilever bridge: The pontic links to only one abutment (crown placed on a natural tooth) in this bridge design. This is occasionally a possibility for those who only have teeth on one side of a gap.
• Maryland dental bridge (winged bridge): If you have lost front teeth, you may need a Maryland – or winged – bridge. It is constructed of porcelain bonded to metal or ceramic teeth, held together by a framework. Each side of the bridge has wings that connect to your existing teeth.
• Implant retained bridge: This bridge is comparable to a “conventional fixed bridge,” except instead of being cemented in place to teeth, it is kept in place by implants.

What are bridges made of?

Bridges are often constructed of precious metal. If the bridge is visible, porcelain is glued to the base. Other non-precious metals are also added to the base for strength.

Are bridges expensive?

Although a bridge may initially appear to be an expensive expenditure, it may be a sensible one that will provide many years of service. It will also enhance your smile aesthetics and your bite. A bridge necessitates the experience and talent of the dentist and technician. It is thus comparable to ordering a piece of hand-made jewellery.

What can I use instead of a dental bridge?

There is a range of dental treatments to replace a missing tooth. Some people opt for removable artificial teeth, known as a partial denture. You remove them to clean them. You could be a good candidate for a single tooth dental implant – used to replace the root of a tooth. Your dentist can advise you on the most appropriate treatment plans for you.

How do I look after my bridge?

To avoid problems like foul breath and gum disease, you should clean your bridge every day. You must also clean behind and around the bridge to prevent the neighbouring tooth from decaying. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss to reach areas that a regular toothbrush cannot.