Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a way to close the gap from a missing tooth or teeth.
It comprises of a crown either side of the gap, with a false tooth (pontic) suspended from the crowned teeth, resulting in the closure of the gap. Bridges, like crowns are made from porcelain, and are designed to match the natural colour of the teeth, to give a natural appearance. They are bonded to the teeth, and cannot be removed after the final appointment. The advantages of a bridge are not only aesthetic, it also assists in spreading the heavy load of the bite when chewing and when cleaned effectively will not compromise the remaining natural teeth.
How long does it take?
Two to three appointments are required for the preparation and bonding of the bridge in place. The first appointment, ranges from one to three hours, depending on the size, position and type of bridge required. The teeth are prepared, to allow room for the bridge in your bite, and an impression taken of the prepared tooth. We will also record the shade of the existing tooth, this enables the technicians to produce a natural looking bridge, and on occasion we may request you see the ceramicist at their laboratory for a super-accurate shade match.
A temporary bridge is made and temporarily bonded to the tooth, this is to reduce sensitivity and maintain the function of the tooth in biting and chewing in between the two visits.
The second visit is scheduled approximately 14 to 21 days later, at this appointment the bridge is prepared to be permanently bonded to the tooth. After close inspection of the bridge margins (where the tooth and bridge meets) and the appearance of the bridge, if both dentist and patient are satisfied, the bridge is permanently bonded intop place.
How to care for your bridge
It is important to thoroughly clean in and around the bridge, pontic and crowns, the dentist or dental hygienist will explain how best to care for your bridge. It is very simple and easy, and long term will extend the life of the bridge in your mouth. Bridges have an estimated life span of 10 to 15 years, we recommend regular dental examinations and professional cleaning to prevent any dental diseases, and to maximise the life of the bridge.
