Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a false tooth which are used to replace one or more missing teeth by being anchored onto the nearby teeth. The false tooth (also called a pontic) is fused between two crowns placed on the surrounding teeth which serve to anchor the false tooth in place. This creates a bridge which holds the restoration carefully in place.

Using a dental bridge

Dental bridges are made up of a false tooth (pontic) which is needed to replace a missing tooth. This is usually made from porcelain, gold, alloys or a mixture of materials. To complete the dental bridge you also need two crowns which anchor the false tooth. Bridges are commonly recommended when there's one or more missing teeth which have an impact on your appearance or smile, your speech, the shape of your face and the likelihood of gum disease or tooth decay occurring due to food debris trapped in the gap. A missing tooth can also have an affect on your bite due to nearby teeth leaning into the empty space and adjusting the way the upper and lower teeth meet.

Types of dental bridges

Traditional bridges - This amongst the most commonly used type of bridge and is made up of a false tooth implanted between two porcelain crowns. These can either be secured onto the surrounding teeth or implants. The false tooth itself is commonly made from porcelain which is fused to either metal or ceramics. This type of bridge is completely fixed and as such, can't be taken out.

Resin-bonded bridges - This type of bridge is commonly used when the gap that needs to be corrected occurs between the front teeth. It may also be used when the teeth surrounding the gap are sturdy and healthy and don't have large fillings in them. The false tooth used in this bridge is usually made from plastic which is fused to metal bands. They are bonded to the surrounding teeth using a resin which can't be seen from the front.

Cantilever bridges - This type of bridge is typically used in areas which are at an increased risk of lower stress. This kind of bridge is commonly recommended where the teeth are only present on one side of the gap.

Fitting

In order to fit your bridge your dentist will first numb the affected area using a mild anaesthetic. Your teeth surrounding the gap will then be prepared by shaving away a small area so that your new crown will fit neatly over them. You'll then have an impression taken of your teeth using specialised dental putty. Using this impression your new bridge will be designed and manufactured in a laboratory. It's usual to have a temporary bridge fitted so that your gums and teeth are protected in the meantime. Your dentist may also used a shade guide to find the right colour for your dental bridge. This can help your bridge to blend in with your natural teeth, bringing several aesthetic benefits. At your next appointment the temporary bridge will be taken out and the new bridge put in. Your dentist will check it fits and bites properly and make any adjustments there and then. If you're both happy with your new bridge it will then be put into place and fixed using special dental cement. It's usual to have a follow up appointment to make sure the bridge fits properly.

Caring for your bridge

Your dental bridge can last anywhere between 10 to 15 years as long as you maintain a decent level of oral hygiene and good eating habits. It's important to take care of your bridge as you would your natural teeth, cleaning it every day and making sure the false tooth is clean as this will protect you from tooth decay, gum disease and halitosis (bad breath). It's also vital to look after your natural teeth as these provide a foundation for your dental bridge. Most dentists agree that you should brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day for around two minutes. It's also important to maintain a healthy diet and avoid sugary snacks and drinks.