Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used by dentists to fill a gap created by a missing tooth or teeth.
In a single tooth bridge, the replacement tooth will be attached to the teeth either side of the gap- forming a ‘bridge’. Multiple replacement teeth can go into a bridge.

Typically, conventional bridges require shaping of the teeth surrounding a missing tooth. Crowns are then placed on the shaped teeth and attached to an artificial tooth (called a pontic).

A resin-bonded bridge requires less preparation of adjacent teeth. It is often used to replace front teeth, provided that the gums are healthy and the surrounding teeth do not have extensive dental fillings.

Bridge Procedure

During the first visit, our Prosthodontist will examine the health of your gums and other teeth to evaluate if you are a candidate for a dental bridge.
Sometimes a course of gum treatment is required before treatment can progress.

A cast of your teeth will be taken so that a wax model of the proposed bridge can be made. Once you are happy with the appearance of the proposed bridge it will be manufactured in the lab.

Some patients may elect for a temporary bridge whilst the permanent bridge is being manufactured and prepared.

After your dental bridge has been cemented into place, your dentist will provide you with hygiene information to maintain the bridge, along with the health of your teeth and gums. A special bridge floss threader will allow you to properly and thoroughly floss the areas surrounding your bridge and between the pontic and underlying gum tissue. It should be used daily to prevent the build-up of plaque and bacteria. Proper brushing with fluoride toothpaste should be performed at least twice each day.