A natural looking solution for a missing tooth
Dental bridges offer a strong, secure and effective way to fill the gap in your smile. As well as boosting your confidence, replacing a missing tooth prevents alignment issues, as the remaining teeth can move out of position to accommodate the gap. A bridge also protects the otherwise exposed gum.
Bridges use the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth, as support. These teeth are fitted with crowns, with the replacement tooth fixed between them to slot perfectly into your smile.
Book an appointmentWhat does the treatment involve?
- At your first appointment, we examine your teeth and gums, checking they are healthy and that the abutment teeth are suitable for providing strong support.
- We prepare the abutment teeth for crowns by removing a layer of enamel, and take impressions so your bridge can be accurately custom made in a dental laboratory. We fit a temporary bridge in place, so your prepared teeth are protected between appointments.
- When your final bridge is ready, we ensure it is a perfect fit, and that you are happy with it, making adjustments if necessary. We then fix it into place using strong dental adhesive. You are unable to remove your bridge, giving it a secure and natural feel.
Frequently asked questions
How long will my bridge last?
It is important to keep up with a good oral hygiene routine at home, to give your bridge the best chance of lasting a long time. If well looked after, including keeping the rest of your teeth healthy and able to provide excellent support, your bridge should last over ten years.
What are bridges made from?
Bridges are typically made from porcelain fused to a metal base, to provide a strong foundation with a highly aesthetic look. They can also be made from ceramic materials.
Will my bridge look natural?
Yes. We are careful to colour match the porcelain or ceramic material to your natural tooth shade, ensuring it blends into your smile. The bridge will be unidentifiable from your other teeth and feel secure.
Can bridges be used for multiple missing teeth?
Yes, we can fix a bridge onto strategically placed dental implants. The implants provide a secure base for multiple replacement teeth, with implant-supported bridges a more long lasting option.