Dental Bridge
Reliable solution for missing teeth
Effective and durable option to fill the gaps and ensure aesthetic and functional benefits
Dental bridges
Dental bridges are a type of fixed prosthetic device that is used to replace one or more teeth that are missing. Bridgework is a commonly chosen option for patients who may not be good candidates for dental implants or who prefer a non-surgical method.
In order to improve the appearance and functionality of your smile, dental bridges fill in the spaces left by missing teeth. Dental bridges are composed of artificial teeth called pontics. Dental crowns attached to the nearby natural teeth or dental implants keep these pontics in place.
What is the purpose dental bridges?
The primary functions of dental bridges are:
Restoring aesthetics: Bridges are created to closely mimic your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The pontics are customised to match the colour, shape, and size of your existing teeth, ensuring a natural-looking smile.
Restoring chewing and speaking abilities: When you have missing teeth, it can be challenging to bite and chew food correctly, and it can also impact your ability to speak clearly. Dental bridges are used to fill gaps in your teeth, which helps you chew properly and speak with clarity.
Preventing tooth misalignment: When a tooth is lost, the teeth next to it can move or tilt into the empty space, leading to misalignment. Dental bridges are used to prevent your teeth from shifting out of alignment by filling in the gap.
Distributing bite forces: A dental bridge helps evenly distribute the forces produced while chewing. It does this by spreading the strain across the neighbouring teeth and the bridge itself, reducing the strain on each individual tooth.
What are the common types of dental bridges?
There are several types of dental bridges available:
Traditional bridge: This is the most common type of dental bridge. It involves creating dental crowns for the teeth adjacent to the gap and then attaching an artificial tooth in between them. The crowns function as anchors that secure the bridge in its position.
Cantilever bridge: A cantilever bridge is used when there is only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap. The artificial tooth is attached to the nearby natural tooth.
Maryland bridge (Resin-bonded bridge): A Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework with wings on either side that are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge is often used for front teeth.
The choice of bridge will depend on different factors, including where the missing tooth is located, the condition of the nearby teeth, and your specific dental requirements. Dr. Cipriani, will thoroughly evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate type of bridge for your long-term oral health, functionality, and appearance.
What happens during a dental bridge procedure?
Typically, the process of getting a dental bridge requires two or more visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the teeth next to the gap are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel, creating enough space for the dental crowns. We will use a 3D intraoral scanner to take digital tooth impressions. These impressions will be used to create a custom bridge that fits perfectly in your mouth.
While the permanent bridge is being made in a dental laboratory, a temporary bridge may be placed to keep the exposed teeth safe. After the final bridge is prepared, you will come back to the dental office to have it placed. Your dentist will ensure the bridge fits correctly, make necessary adjustments, and then permanently cement it into position.
How do you maintain a dental bridge?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential in order to keep your dental bridge and the teeth around it healthy. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, as well as arranging routine dental check-ups. With proper care, dental bridges can last for several years, making them a reliable and long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.
Are you more interested in a non-surgical solution for your missing teeth?
Many patients who are not suitable for dental implants prefer dental bridgework as a non-surgical alternative. This solution offers a reliable method to replace missing teeth, bringing back both aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Trust Dental Crafted
Our experienced team will guide you throughout the entire bridgework process. We will ensure that you are comfortable and satisfied at every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you find the most suitable solution that meets your individual requirements, ensuring long-term oral health, improved functionality, and enhanced aesthetics.