A dental bridge is used where there are fewer teeth to replace. You can choose to have a removable false tooth or teeth, like a partial denture or a fixed bridge. Bridges are usually used where missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth.
The Dental Bridges are usually made of a precious metal base although sometimes non-precious metals can be used in the base to reduce the cost.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
WHAT IS A DENTAL BRIDGE?
A dental bridge is a very effective restoration, it can be an addition to having a dental implant. A bridge is used where there are fewer teeth to replace. You can choose to have either a removable false tooth/teeth something similar to a partial denture or a fixed bridge. Bridges are used where missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth. They are made of a precious metal base, although sometimes non precious can be used to reduce the costs involved.
WHY DO I NEED A DENTAL BRIDGE?
A dental bridge will be recommended for both cosmetic and clinical reasons, a missing tooth following an accident or trauma can be unsightly, a bridge is an effective way to fix the problem.
Your dentist may also use a bridge in situations where extraction has been necessary because of advanced decay. Clinical advantages of a bridge are that it will reduce any strain on the surrounding teeth, preventing problems with bite development. Usually, surrounding teeth will start to move into a gap, food can also trap in the space and this can lead to increased decay and gum disease.
WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF A TYPICAL DENTAL BRIDGE (FIXED)?
A dental bridge consists of:
- A pontic or false tooth used to replace the missing tooth and is made from gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of these materials
- Two crowns – serving to anchor the false tooth in place
WHAT ARE DENTAL BRIDGES MADE OF?
Bridges may be made of:
- Porcelain
- Porcelain bonded to precious metal
- All metal dental bridges (Gold)
HOW YOUR DENTAL BRIDGE IS FITTED?
Fitting a dental bridge will take a couple of visits, this is to make sure that the bridge is fitted and adjusted correctly. At the first visit, your dentist will prepare your tooth to make space for new crowns for the fixed bridge. An impression or mould is then taken of the teeth from which your dental bridge will be made. This is then sent off to a dental laboratory specialist who will construct your dental bridge.
The second visit will be to have your dental bridge fitted, although not permanently this is to ensure that after a few weeks of wear you are happy with the fit and feel. Once you feel comfortable and happy with the bite and feel a short appointment will be made to permanently secure your bridge.
HOW LONG WILL DENTAL BRIDGES LAST?
Dental bridges can last 10-15 years provided that you maintain good dental hygiene and eating habits.
WHY SHOULD YOU REPLACE MISSING TEETH?
Your appearance is just one reason, but the gap left by a missing tooth can mean strain is put on the teeth at either side of the missing tooth. It can also cause the teeth next to this gap, to lean into it and this can alter the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. It can cause further problems as food can get into the gap, which causes decay and gum disease.
NEED MORE ADVICE?
If you need more advice about your oral health, make an enquiry or arrange an appointment with us.