Dental Bridges
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a type of dental restoration that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It includes one or more artificial teeth anchored in place by dental crowns that are attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
Dental bridges may be a good alternative if dental implants are not suitable for you, and if you would like a fixed (non-removable) tooth replacement option instead of a removable denture.
Steps for Dental Bridge Procedure
Traditional (conventional) Dental Bridge or Cantilever Bridge
- Initial Consultation: The dentist evaluates your oral health and takes X-rays to assess the condition of the adjacent teeth and jawbone.
- Preparation: Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area. The dentist then files down the adjacent teeth to prepare them for crowns.
- Impressions: Impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom bridge. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth.
- Fitting: Once the permanent bridge is ready, the dentist checks its fit and adjusts as necessary. The bridge is then cemented onto the prepared teeth.
Resin Bonded Bridge (Maryland Bridge)
- Initial Consultation: The dentist evaluates your dental health and takes necessary X-rays.
- Preparation: Local anaesthesia is used if needed. The dentist prepares the adjacent teeth by lightly roughening their surfaces to enhance bond strength.
- Framework Creation: Impressions are taken to create a metal or porcelain framework with wings that will be bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth.
- Fitting and Bonding: The framework is checked for fit and adjusted as needed. The wings are then bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth with a special adhesive.
Benefits of Dental Bridge
Improves Aesthetics
A dental bridge fills gaps left by missing teeth, enhancing your smile and helping maintain the natural shape of your face.
Restores Functionality
A dental bridge allows you to chew and speak properly, which can be challenging with missing teeth.
Prevents Teeth Shifting
A bridge helps prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and further dental issues.
Fixed and Secure
Unlike dentures, dental bridges are fixed in place, providing a stable and long-lasting solution that doesn’t require removal.
Is a Dental Bridge the Right Solution for You?
A dental bridge is a common solution for replacing missing teeth. You may want to consider it if:
- You have one or more missing teeth with strong adjacent teeth to support the bridge.
- You prefer a fixed, non-removable solution over dentures.
- You have compromised bone density, making jawbone surgery for implants unsuitable.
- You want to enhance your smile and maintain the natural shape of your face.
Risks of Dental Bridge
Similar to natural teeth, a dental bridge requires maintenance. It requires regular brushing, flossing and routine dental checkups to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. It is possible for bridges to break down over time and require repair or replacement. Tooth decay on abutment teeth (teeth anchoring the artificial teeth) is also possible and can compromise a dental bridge.
Some patients may have specific risks of embarking on the procedure due to the presence of existing dental or medical conditions. Your dentist will discuss with you your particular risks (if any) during your consultation.
Post-Care for Your Dental Bridge
Proper post-care is essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental bridge. Here is a brief overview for post-treatment care and maintenance:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Proper brushing and flossing are crucial to keeping your dental bridge and surrounding teeth in top condition.
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: These foods can put undue stress on the bridge and potentially dislodge it.
- Be Aware of Any Changes: If you experience discomfort related to your dental bridge, such as unusual sensitivity, loosening, or issues with your bite, contact your dentist immediately.
Choosing Between Bridges and Implants: Understanding the Differences
Structural Support
- Bridges – Dental bridges rely on neighbouring teeth for support. They consist of prosthetic teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth, creating a bridge to fill the gap caused by a missing tooth.
- Implants – Dental implants are standalone replacements. A titanium post is surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a secure foundation for attaching a prosthetic tooth, mimicking the natural tooth structure.
Preservation of Adjacent Teeth
- Bridges – The placement of a dental bridge requires the alteration of adjacent teeth to accommodate crowns, potentially compromising their natural structure.
- Implants – Dental implants do not impact adjacent teeth. The implant is inserted directly into the jaw, preserving the integrity of neighbouring natural teeth.
Longevity and Maintenance
- Bridges – While bridges offer a durable solution, they may require replacement over time. Proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups are crucial to ensure their longevity.
- Implants – Dental implants are known for their longevity and stability. With proper care, they can last a lifetime. Routine dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential for implant maintenance.
Bone Health and Facial Aesthetics
- Bridges – As bridges do not involve the placement of an implant in the jawbone, they may not stimulate bone growth, potentially leading to bone loss over time.
- Implants – Dental implants mimic the natural tooth root, promoting bone stimulation and preserving jawbone health. This contributes to maintaining facial aesthetics and preventing the sunken appearance associated with bone loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
A dental bridge is a potential option to fill a gap caused by missing teeth. Consulting with your dentist will help determine if it’s suitable for your specific dental condition. They can also discuss alternative solutions like implants, dentures, or orthodontics.
With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last for many years. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are important for their longevity.
No. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring that you are comfortable and pain-free during the treatment.
Yes, dental bridges allow you to eat a wide variety of foods. However, it is recommended to avoid excessively hard foods that may damage the bridge. Practicing good oral hygiene and returning for your regular dental check ups are also crucial to help maintain the condition of your dental bridges and the health of their supporting teeth.
Yes, dental bridges are designed to be durable and long-lasting. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a well-constructed bridge can last between 5 to 15 years or more. The durability of a dental bridge depends on factors such as the material used, your oral hygiene practices, and the condition of the supporting teeth or implants.
Dental bridges can look very natural when custom-made to match the colour, shape, and size of your existing teeth.
Yes, dental bridges are generally safe when placed by a qualified dentist. The procedure is minimally invasive, and the materials used are biocompatible, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
