Missing a tooth? A bridge can help to restore your smile to its former glory.

Dental bridges are used to literally bridge the gap caused by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is constructed using two crowns on either side of the gap, joined together with a false tooth or teeth depending on the number of missing teeth. The false teeth are called pontics. Dental bridges can be supported either by natural teeth or dental implants.

There are three main types of dental bridges:

Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.

Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This is not very common anymore and is not recommended in the back of the mouth where it can put too much force on other teeth and damage them.

Maryland bridges are made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework. Metal or porcelain wings often on just one side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.

Treatment

The bridge will be created over two appointments. At the first appointment the teeth will be prepared and impressions taken to be sent to the dental technician so they can craft your bridge. You will be fitted with a temporary bridge to wear while the permanent bridge is being made.

At your second appointment the temporary bridge will be removed and the permanent bridge fitted. The cost of the bridge will depend on the number of teeth to be replaced and the material to be used. You will be provided with a detailed estimate with a breakdown of the options available prior to treatment.

Benefits of Bridges

Bridges restore your smile – bridges can be used to replace one or more missing teeth

Bridges help to protect your remaining teeth – bridges distribute the biting pressure evenly across all your teeth reducing the risk of breakages

Bridges allow you to eat a varied diet and speak clearly – no food will be off limits and as the bridge is fixed you need not worry about your teeth shifting or moving

Bridges are long lasting – bridges can last 5-25 years or even longer, provided the supporting teeth remain healthy