Dental bridges

If you feel embarrassed about gaps in your smile, a natural looking dental bridge can successfully fill in those unsightly spaces and help restore your confidence. A longer lasting alternative to dentures, dental bridges are an effective way to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of a false tooth, positioned between two crowns, which slot over the teeth either side of a gap (known as abutment teeth) or they can be held in place by dental implants. They are usually made from porcelain fused to a metal or ceramic base, to offer a blend of strength and good looks.

Benefits

As well as restoring an incomplete smile, bridges can offer a host of other benefits, including:

  • Improving how you eat and speak.
  • Enhancing facial contours.
  • Distributing the forces in your bite correctly.
  • Preventing remaining teeth from moving out of position.

Treatment steps

  • The abutment teeth are prepared by removing a layer of enamel to ensure there will be sufficient room for the crowns.
  • Impressions are taken so the bridge can be tailor-made to fit.
  • While the bridge is being made, a temporary bridge may be put in place to protect the exposed teeth.
  • When ready, the bridge is checked and adjusted to make sure it fits perfectly and it is finally fixed in place with strong dental cement.
  • As well as traditional bridges, featuring crowns and a false tooth in between, there are also cantilever bridges, for cases where there are teeth on only one side of the gap, and Maryland bonded bridges, which are attached to existing teeth with metal or ceramic wings.

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.
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 over ten years.

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Replacing missing teeth is important, as gaps can affect how you chew and speak, and may cause nearby teeth to drift into the space. This can alter your bite and increase the risk of further dental problems. A bridge can also help restore the appearance of your smile.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed solution that replaces missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) to neighbouring natural teeth or dental implants. It is usually made up of one or more crowns joined together as a single unit. Bridges help restore function and appearance, distribute biting forces more evenly, and prevent surrounding teeth from moving out of position.

How is a dental bridge fitted?

Your dentist will begin by examining your teeth and jaw to see whether a bridge is the right option for you. This helps confirm that the supporting teeth are strong enough and have good bone support.

Next, an impression or scan of your mouth will be taken. This is used to create a model of your teeth and gums, allowing your dentist to see how your teeth meet and bite together.

The teeth on either side of the gap are then gently reshaped so the bridge can be fitted securely and sit comfortably in your mouth.

Your dentist will talk you through the process and make sure you understand each stage before treatment goes ahead.

How do I look after my dental bridge?

Looking after your bridge is important to keep it strong and your mouth healthy. You should:

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
  • Clean around the bridge daily using floss, special bridge floss, or interdental brushes
  • Attend regular dental health check-ups so your dentist can monitor the bridge and supporting teeth
  • Avoid biting very hard foods or ice, as this can damage the bridge

With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, a bridge can last for many years.

If you think a dental bridge may be right for you, contact Care Dental in Crieffto book a consultation.

Plans & fees

Dental fees

We believe in open, honest pricing at Care Dental.

    Next steps

    Ready to see one of our team?

    If you're ready to book an appointment, get in touch today.