Bridges

Dental bridges are a fixed solution to missing teeth that have been used in dentistry for generations.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a popular option used to replace a missing tooth. The bridge effectively “bridges” the space created by the missing tooth to an existing tooth (or teeth).
They can be made from metal and/or porcelain, depending on the location of the missing tooth. There are now different types of bridges available, from conventional bridges to resin bonded bridges (winged bridges). Your dentist at Family Dental Care Centre can discuss these with you.

Below describes a very brief overall view of what a conventional dental bridge involves.

What is involved with getting a dental bridge?

Following all necessary tests to ensure suitability usually two appointments are necessary.

At the first visit, following the administration of local anaesthetic (if required), the tooth/teeth being used to bridge the artificial tooth is prepared and reshaped as required. Thereafter, necessary impressions (moulds) of your teeth are taken. The impressions are used to ascertain how your teeth bite together so that the teeth supporting the bridge can be prepared by the off-site dental lab. A shade will also be selected and in certain cases a temporary bridge or cover over the prepared teeth may be necessary.

Following the above, we will invite you back to the practice to fit the bridge and make any necessary minor adjustments.

What are the benefits of getting a dental bridge?

• A fixed and popular solution to missing teeth.
• The artificial teeth are created to match the shade of your existing healthy teeth.
• A dental bridge improves the way you chew and speak, restoring your smile and your confidence.
• Durable.

What is a Maryland Bridge?

Maryland bridges are also known as ‘resin bonded bridges’ or ‘winged bridges’. These are becoming an increasingly popular treatment option due to their minimally invasive nature.

If your Dentist feels this is a suitable treatment option for your particular situation, they will discuss this with you. A Maryland bridge involves the use of a false tooth with a metal ‘wing’ or frame, which is attached typically to e tooth behind the missing tooth. This wing is then bonded to the enamel of that tooth.

The biggest advantage of this bridge type is that the tooth to which the bridge is attached remains largely untouched. Very minimal, if any preparation is required within the enamel of this tooth hence it is a very safe treatment option.