Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a custom-made prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth. It “bridges” the gap between natural teeth or implants. Bridges can significantly improve your oral health, appearance, and functionality. They can be long-lasting if well-maintained and protect adjacent natural teeth from wear and misalignment.
Conventional Bridges
A conventional bridge is made by drilling the adjacent tooth (or teeth) down to a peg and a crown is made, which fits over this prepared tooth. A false tooth is connected to this crown (or crowns if there are two supporting teeth), which then fills the gap left by the missing tooth. This can alter the shape and appearance of the adjacent teeth to match the new false tooth. A conventional bridge can affect the nerve of the tooth.
Conventional bridges are typically made of porcelain bonded to metal or zirconia.
The process involves several stages:
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Your teeth are prepared and impressions of your mouth are taken to create precise plaster models.
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The bridge is custom-made by a dental technician.
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A temporary bridge or crown may be fitted while the permanent bridge is being crafted.
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The final visit involves fitting and permanently fixing the bridge in place.
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Adhesive Bridges
An adhesive bridge is made by sticking a small metal wing to the back of an adjacent tooth which supports the false tooth. This requires very little or no drilling of the adjacent tooth, but can sometimes cause the supporting tooth to look slightly greyer.
For an adhesive bridge, the tooth is prepared (if necessary) and an impression (mould) of your teeth is made. A dental technician will then make the bridge in to fit the supporting tooth. At your next visit, the dentist will try the bridge in place, and may fit it at that visit or a subsequent visit (if modifications are necessary).
Consult us to determine the best option for your specific case. Proper care and maintenance will ensure the longevity of your dental bridge.