We understand that a gap between teeth isn’t for everyone.
A missing tooth can not only affect your confidence but also cause the shifting and drifting of adjacent and opposing teeth. A bridge is a simple way to replace a missing tooth and smile with confidence.
What is a bridge?
A dental bridge is designed to replace missing teeth and consists of one or more artificial teeth that are bonded or cemented to neighbouring healthy teeth to restore function and aesthetics.
What types of bridges are available?
Dental bridges have undergone numerous design changes over the years.
There are three main types of bridges; these are bonded bridges, cantilever bridges, and implant-retained bridges:
- Bonded bridges (or traditional bridges) consist of one or two crowns that sit upon the adjacent teeth with the artificial tooth/teeth between them.
- A cantilever (winged) bridge is an artificial tooth with a small metal wing that is bonded to the adjacent tooth/teeth with a strong dental adhesive.
- Implant retained bridges are supported by titanium posts that sit below the gum line.
What are bridges made from?
There are many materials that bridges can be made from. Preferences are determined by your individual circumstances and will be discussed as part of your bespoke treatment plan.
Most bridges are made from a combination of metal (for strength) and covered with a durable tooth-coloured material such as porcelain. However, if aesthetics are a concern, we can now produce metal-free bridges.
What are the advantages of dental bridges?
Bridges replacing missing teeth have both considerable cosmetic and functional benefits.
They can restore function with regards to eating and speech as well as maintaining the space to prevent movement of opposing and adjacent teeth.
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