Dental bridges are an alternative to partial dentures. They consist of several pieces that fit into the open space where your tooth (or teeth) used to be. A bridge can help you eat and speak better and improve the appearance of your teeth.
Bridges can be made of ceramic, resin, porcelain, or metals like cobalt and gold. Ceramic is a top choice when replacing front teeth. It mimics the translucency of natural teeth and can be matched to your natural colour.
The artificial teeth used in dental bridges are called pontics. You’ll have a pontic for each missing tooth. A pontic is made to be close in shape and size to the missing tooth.
A dental bridge sits atop the gums and is anchored to a crown on its neighbouring teeth. An implant is mounted on a screw attached to the jaw bone. Bridges are faster, easier to complete, less expensive, and often covered by insurance. Implants require a surgical procedure and take several months to finish, but they look more natural and last longer than bridges. Pontics are anchored to a tooth next to the gap (abutment teeth) or to a dental implant.
Dental bridges can provide many benefits, including:
Dental bridges do have some disadvantages and potential risks that you should be aware of, including:
Good oral hygiene is important if you have a dental bridge because you want to keep your remaining teeth strong and healthy.
Having good oral health is also important if you want your bridge to last as long as possible. Just as you do for your natural teeth, you should brush and floss your bridge at least twice daily. Your dentist or dental hygienist will show you how to properly floss and clean around your bridge.
Right after your bridge is placed, you will need to be very careful about what you eat as your mouth is healing. Your dentist will give you specific instructions to follow during that time. In the long term, certain foods can cause problems for dental bridges or abutment teeth. If you want your bridge to last and avoid damaging it, you must avoid these foods.
Foods you should avoid if you have a dental bridge include:
As a comprehensive dental centre, we provide a full range of treatments, from general dentistry, like check-ups, fillings, and tooth extractions, to restorative treatments, like crowns, bridges, and dental implants and cosmetic treatments, like teeth whitening and dental veneers.
Absolutely! First and foremost, we’re a family dentist, so we’re highly accomplished in dealing with young children. Our team understands the importance of creating a good first impression and will do everything possible to ensure your child leaves with a positive experience.
We’re based in Spalding, Lincolnshire, but we regularly see patients from the surrounding villages and the wider areas of Bourne, Boston, and Holbeach. Whatever area you reside in, feel free to contact us for an appointment.
Yes. We aim to keep some slots free each day for emergency appointments, so if you are in any pain or discomfort and need a same-day appointment, give us a call, and we’ll do all we can to accommodate you.
