What is a bridge?

A bridge is used to replace missing teeth and is one alternative to partial dentures.

Bridges are usually made from a precious metal base and if the bridge is visible, porcelain is then bonded to the base. To reduce the cost, non-precious metals can sometimes be used for the base.

The bridge is made by constructing crowns on the teeth either side of the gap and joining them together with a false tooth. It is made in the laboratory and cemented into place using a special dental adhesive. A bridge can improve the way you look, bite, chew and even speak. Note the good colour match. If teeth are not replaced or supported when lost they will misalign other teeth causing your teeth to bite together incorrectly.

We are able to make a special bridge if required that can hold upto 7 teeth.

What is the age limit of an bridge application?

A bridge can be fitted to a person of 15 years or above . Once in place the bridge cannot be removed. You can usually have a bridge if you have enough strong teeth with good bone support.

Fitting the bridge:

You will need to have at least two appointments if you have a fixed bridge fitted.

Appointment 1:

Tooth preparation, impression of your teeth, temporary bridge fitted.
1. You will be given a local anaesthetic around the working area before preparing the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth.
2. For the bridge to work effectively the teeth will need to be reduced in size and shaped to both support the bridge and to make sure it doesn't protrude.
3. Once the teeth are prepared, your dentist will take an impression and a colour match from surrounding teeth. The bridge will then be made in our laboratory by a dental technician.
4. A temporary bridge will be fixed into place ready for you second appointment.

Appointment 2:

Cementing the fixed bridge into place.
1. You will be given another anaesthetic to numb the area and then the dentist will remove the temporary bridge.
2. Once you and the dentist are happy with the fit and positioning of the bridge, it will be cemented into place.

Care of the bridge:

After the bridge has been fitted it is important for the patient to keep it clean. Instructions on the care and cleaning of the bridge will be issued by us following your treatment.

Advantages of a bridge:

Bridges are natural in appearance, and usually require only two visits to your dentist. If you maintain good oral hygiene, your fixed bridge should last as many many years.