Bridges

Have a missing tooth? We can fill the gap using a dental bridge. A longer-lasting alternative to dentures, dental bridges use the teeth on either side of the gap to support a replacement tooth. Bridges allow us to complete a smile without carrying out any surgical work.

Bridges are usually made from porcelain fused to a metal or ceramic base. If looked after well, bridges can last a long time.

When combined with dental implants, a bridge can replace more than one missing tooth if several are missing in a row.

What does having a bridge fitting involve?

The teeth on either side of the gap will need to be prepared. These teeth, known as the abutment teeth, will support the bridge. Crowns fitted to the replacement tooth will fit over these teeth. We remove a layer of enamel to allow enough room for the crowns.

We then take impressions of the prepared teeth so we can create a bridge that will fit snugly inside your mouth. We provide a temporary bridge in the meantime to protect the exposed teeth.
When the bridge has been finished, we invite you back for the fitting. We make sure it fits perfectly and it is finally fixed in place with strong dental cement.

Aftercare

Good oral hygiene is essential to ensure the longevity of your bridge. It is especially important to clean under the false tooth, as well as brushing and flossing regularly. You also need to see your hygienist and dentist regularly for check-ups and so they can keep an eye on your bridge and the surrounding teeth.

If bridges are well looked after, and that includes keeping the surrounding teeth healthy so they can continue to provide a solid foundation, they should last for many years.