A bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces missing teeth. It is secured by being cemented and permanently attached to neighbouring teeth or implants.
They have a number of advantages over removable partial dentures, the main one being that they are fixed and cemented on to teeth in the mouth and that there is no coverage of the palate or roof of the mouth which some patients to find uncomfortable.
Following tooth preparation at an initial visit an impression is taken and that impression is sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge is constructed by a dental technician. At the second visit the bridge is fitted and cemented into place.
Careful case selection is important when making bridges. The patient must have a very good level of oral hygiene and must be well motivated. The supporting teeth that hold the bridge in place must be sound and capable of withstanding the extra load. Bridgework is provided as part of an overall treatment plan that would be discussed with you following a detailed examination and assessment.
