Dental bridges are an effective and natural-looking way to replace one or more missing teeth. They are usually made from a combination of ceramic materials and metal alloys and utilise the existing teeth as a foundation to replace what’s missing. Unlike a denture, they are fixed in place and do not need to be removed during your sleep.
There are various different styles of bridges that can be used but they can be broadly categorised into conventional bridges, which require extensive preparation of the teeth used, and resin bonded bridges, which can sometimes be provided without any need for tooth preparation.
The most obvious benefit of bridges is the way they restore an incomplete smile, but there can be risks associated with tooth preparation, so each patient needs to be assessed on a case by case basis and the dentists at High Street Dental Practice will discuss the advantages and disadvantages should you wish to proceed with this option.
Treatment Steps
- An assessment of the mouth needs to be undertaken to confirm suitability of this form of treatment.
- For conventional bridges, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a layer of enamel so the crowns can be comfortably accommodated.
- For resin bonded bridges little or no preparation may be required.
- Impressions are taken of the upper and lower teeth, so the bridge can be tailor-made to fit.
- After the bridge has been produced in a laboratory, it is firmly adhered into position with a long lasting dental adhesive.
If bridges are well looked after, including keeping the surrounding teeth healthy so they can provide a solid foundation, they may last for years.
Excellent cleaning around bridges, especially in between the teeth, is essential to ensure that the bridge continues to function well.
