What is a dental bridge?
If you have a missing tooth, it can sometimes be replaced with a dental bridge. A dental bridge is a false tooth held in place by the teeth on either side of the gap. I bridge looks like a dental crown and it can be held in place by one or two other dental crowns (crown abutments) or by a wing attached to the neighbouring tooth. Our cosmetic dentistry services are designed to improve the appearance of your teeth providing the smile you’ve always dreamed of!
When is a dental bridge indicated?
A dental bridge is usually indicated when there is one or more missing teeth that need to be replaced. Your dentist will assess the size of the gap and the condition of the neighbouring teeth and advise you on whether a dental bridge would be a suitable treatment option. The neignbouring teeth, also known as abutments, need to be in good condition to support the bridge.
Why do we recommend dental bridges?
If you have one or more missing teeth, then a dental bridge could be a suitable treatment option if it is not possible to place a dental implant. Factors that would determine your decision include the span of the space (number of teeth missing), time, affordability, the condition of the abutment teeth, and your medical history. Your dentist will discuss the different options and advise you accordingly.
What types of bridges are available?
Dental bridges can be made of different materials such as porcelain, zirconia, metal or porcelain bonded to metal. When selecting a material for your bridge, your dentist will consider factors such as: tooth position, your bite, how much of the tooth will be displayed when smiling, the amount of tooth structure left, the colour of the abutment teeth, and position of the gum tissue.
What are the steps involved in preparing teeth for a bridge?
This is usually done over two appointments. An X-ray of the teeth supporting the bridge (bridge abutments) is usually required to assess their condition before they are treated.
- Your dentist will re-shape part of the outer layer of the abutment tooth or teeth.
- An impression will be taken of the prepared teeth and surrounding teeth.
- The dentist will place temporary restorations over your teeth to protect them.
- The impression will be sent to a lab in Dubai, where the ceramist will construct the bridge. This usually takes 4-5 working days.
- When the bridge is ready, you will need to attend the clinic for a second visit. During this visit, your temporary restorations will be removed and the new bridge will be cemented in place.
Does a dental bridge require special care?
If you have a bridge in your mouth, it is very important that you clean the area between the bridge and your gums regularly. If this is not done, you may suffer from gum inflammation, gum bleeding, bad breath and the bridge abutments may start to decay. The best way to clean a bridge is by using a special kind of floss called Superfloss. Your dentist and/or hygienist will show you how to clean and take care of your bridge appropriately.
Are dental bridges removable?
Dental bridges are usually fixed on your teeth with permanent dental cement. Therefore, they are not removable. However, dental bridges can easily be replaced by your dentist, if it is required to do so.
Will I find it difficult to eat with a dental bridge in my mouth?
Not at all, your customized bridge should fit perfectly to replace your missing tooth and you should be able to chew and function normally.
What can be done if my dental bridge falls off or becomes loose?
If your bridge becomes loose, your dentist will assess the abutment teeth and check whether it would be possible to re-cement the bridge back in place. If the abutment tooth or teeth are still intact then usually the bridge can be easily re-cemented back in place. However, if the abutment tooth or teeth are broken or decayed then the bridge will probably not fit and so alternative treatment options would be discussed.
Is it better to replace a missing tooth with a dental bridge or a dental implant?
Missing teeth can usually be replaced with dental bridges or dental implants. Each option has its pros and cons. Dental implants are usually the more conservative treatment option but are a longer treatment to complete and are usually more costly. Dental bridges take less time to complete but require teeth preparation and require more effort from the patient in terms of hygiene maintenance.