Bridges

Bridges

A bridge is a fixed restoration used to fill a space using one or two teeth on either side.  A bridge is the next alternative to a denture and can last many years depending on the health of the gums and teeth underneath.

Types of bridges:-

Fixed - requires one or two of the teeth on either side to be partially reduced in size to fit the bridge over the top

Adhesive ("Maryland") - can usually only be used towards the front of mouth, where the biting forces are less.  This type of bridge require minimal reduction of the surface of the tooth.  The bridge is made up of a false "tooth" and metal "wing" which is cemented onto the back of the adjacent tooth or teeth on either side.

Treatment:

• At the first visit the tooth/teeth are prepared and impressions (moulds) are taken together with the bite and colour record.  This is sent to the Dental Laboratory where the master technician makes the bridge as an individual customized restoration.
• The bridge is tried in at the next visit and the fit, appearance and bite are all checked, if everything ok, the bridge is fitted with dental cement.  If not it is to laboratory for changes to be made and then sent back and fitted at next visit.  It may take several visits to get appearance correct.
• A review appointment may be required to reassess bite and make sure there is no excess cement which can cause problems with gum health.