Dental Bridge

A stable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth

Dental bridges involve using the teeth next to a gap as support, with a replacement tooth filling the space in between them. There are various types of dental bridgework that can be placed, and we always take the time to discuss with you which would be best for your individual case.

What types of bridge are available?

• Resin bonded bridge
  A resin bonded bridge is the least destructive of all the designs and involves minimal removal of tooth structure. Resin bonded bridges are not commonly placed at the back because the forces are greater and can risk loosening the bridge. Instead, they tend to be reserved for replacing teeth at the front, either on a temporary basis prior to restoration of implants or on a permanent basis.

• Fixed bridge
  Fixed bridges are far more destructive to the teeth but are much more likely to stay in place. To place them, the teeth on either side of the gap need to be fitted with crowns, and have a layer of natural enamel removed to accommodate this. The problem with cutting down the teeth so severely is that this may mean that root canal treatment will be required in these teeth at some stage in the future.

What does the treatment involve?

Initially, we examine your teeth and gums, making sure the teeth that will support the bridge are healthy and strong. If you are having a fixed bridge, we prepare the abutment teeth on either side of the gap for treatment by removing a layer of enamel.

We take impressions of your teeth so your bridge can be custom made in a dental specific laboratory. If necessary, we provide you with a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth between appointments.

When it is ready, we check and adjust your bridge to ensure it fits perfectly before securing it in place. A fixed bridge uses crowns on the supporting teeth, with a natural looking replacement tooth in between, while a resin bonded bridge is bonded to one adjacent tooth and requires no preparation.