Bridges
What are Bridges?
Bridges are dental appliances to replace missing teeth.
The supporting teeth are called 'abutments' and the false teeth that are connected by porcelain or metal are called 'pontics'. Some bridges have two, three or four pontics linked together.
Another term used to describe a dental bridge is an 'indirect' restoration, because it is made outside of your mouth by a milling machine or by a dental technician in a certified dental laboratory.
Benefits of a bridge?
- To restore spaces by replacing missing teeth.
- They can improve the appearance of someones smile.
- They help with speech when someone has had missing teeth.
- They improve chewing function for people with missing teeth.
What does the process of making a bridge involve for you?
It involves several steps:
Initial consultation: Your teeth will be examined to ensure that a bridge is suitable followed by a chat about the different types of bridges that are available so that you can make an informed decision.
Preparation of Abutment teeth: The strong teeth on either side of the space by removing some enamel to ensure there is room for the abutment cap to fit over your teeth and feel comfortable when you bite together. This creates a stable foundation for the bridge.
Impressions or scans: Impressions are taken to ensure an accurate mould of your teeth. If there is a scanner available, you teeth will be scanned and sent to the dental lab.
Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge is made to help protect your abutment teeth while the dental technician creates your bridge.
Fitting the permanent bridge: When your bridge is fitted, your dentist will check the shade ( colour), shape , fitting joint and your bite to ensure that the bridge functions aesthetically and functionally.
The photos below give you an idea of what can be achieved. There is a missing tooth that was removed due to trauma.
Several options were discussed with the patient to restore the space. A denture, an implant and a bridge. The patient decided to opt for a bridge. She was delighted with the results.
Appointment times:
The initial appointment can last from 50 mins to 2 hours depending on the number of teeth involved. the second appointment can last between 30 mins and 75 mins depending on the number of crowns to be fitted.
Is this something that you would be interested in?
