A dental bridge can be an effective solution for replacement of a missing tooth, or several missing teeth in some cases.
In this guide, we discuss the different types of dental bridges most commonly used, and what you should consider when getting dental bridge treatment.
What is dental bridge treatment?
As the name suggests, a dental bridge is a prosthesis that is used to “bridge” the gap left from when a tooth is removed, due to trauma, injury or decay.
A dental bridge can be used to fill the space left by a single tooth, or they can replace multiple teeth in a row, depending on the treatment required.
As a dental bridge is fixed in place using permanent cement, you do not have to take it in and out, as you would with a denture for example; a dental bridge is permanently fixed in place, providing a long-term solution to missing teeth.
How does a dental bridge work?
There are many types of dental bridges available, with the type and material used depending on each individual patient’s needs and treatment requirements:
Conventional Bridge: The most common type of bridge, this is where the two teeth either side of the empty space are fitted with dental crowns, with an artificial tooth attached in the middle (this false tooth is known as a pontic).
Cantilever Bridge: This is similar to a conventional bridge, except the bridge is attached to only one of the adjacent teeth, not on both sides. A dentist may use this type of bridge if a natural tooth is present on only one side of the empty space.
Resin Bonded Bridge: This type of bridge uses “wings” that attach to the natural teeth either side of the space, rather than crowns holding it in place. These “wings” can be made of metal or porcelain, which are permanently bonded to the back of the natural teeth (either on one or both sides). These types of bridges are generally used on front teeth.
Implant Retained Bridge: In cases where several teeth in a row need to be replaced, both dental implants and a bridge might be used together to close the gap. In this case, dental implants are placed first, and once they are fully integrated, the implants are used to hold an implant-retained bridge, e.g. two implants might hold a bridge containing 3 or more teeth across a space.
The type of bridge your dentist may use depends on what treatment is required for your specific dentition; a bridge will not be suitable in all cases of missing teeth, and the type of bridge that suits one person’s needs may not work for another; a dedicated consultation with a dentist is always essential before deciding what treatment is right for you when it comes to replacing missing dentition.
What steps are involved in dental bridge treatment?
Once you have had a consultation with your dentist and they have decided that a dental bridge is the most suitable option for you, the bridge treatment itself is split into two appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the natural tooth/teeth to receive the bridge, creating a new shape that will allow the bridge to fit correctly over them. A digital scan will be taken of your teeth, and this will be sent directly to a premium dental lab, where they will create a dental bridge completely customised to blend in with your existing dentition.
While we wait for the dental lab to create your custom dental bridge, a temporary bridge may be fitted in the meantime (only if required). A temporary bridge is designed to be durable, but will only be adhered with temporary cement, so care must be taken during this time to avoid sticky or hard foods that might dislodge or damage the temporary bridge.
Once the permanent bridge returns from the dental lab (usually 2-4 weeks after the preparation appointment), the dental bridge is then permanently bonded to the adjacent tooth/teeth, closing the missing space and restoring your smile.
What maintenance is involved in dental bridge treatment, and how long will it last?
The most important factor in maintaining a dental bridge, like any dental treatment, is an excellent oral hygiene routine. Just like looking after your natural dentition, cleaning your bridge is essential to improve its longevity; you will still need to clean your dental bridge thoroughly, and floss under your bridge to ensure no debris builds up in the small space between the bridge and your gum (specific floss for dental bridges is available, such as Oral-B Superfloss).
You will also need to take care of your bridge by avoiding any excessively hard or sticky foods that may cause damage/debonding of the bridge. Provided it is cared for correctly, a dental bridge can provide a long-term solution for a missing tooth both aesthetically and functionally, lasting as long as 7-10 years in some cases.
How long does a dental bridge last?
The cost of a dental bridge can vary depending on how many teeth need replacement and the complexity of the work involved, but as a general guide dental bridges cost from €950.00 per unit.
Bridgework is also eligible for 20% tax relief under the Med2 scheme, which can be claimed from Revenue following completion of treatment.
Things to Consider
A dental bridge is just one of many options that can be used when replacing a missing tooth, or several missing teeth. Dental bridges have many advantages; compared to a denture, they provide the security of a fixed prosthesis; allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with more confidence. A dental bridge is long-lasting and durable, and as they are anchored to the teeth either side, they can prevent these teeth from shifting and moving into the space left by the missing tooth.
That being said, dental bridges cannot be used in all situations; if the teeth either side of a missing space are decayed or damaged, they may not be suitable to hold a bridge in place- or if they become damaged after the dental bridge has been placed, this may compromise the bridgework. There is also the risk of increased gum inflammation underneath the bridge if it is not cleaned properly, which is why good oral hygiene maintenance is especially important.
In most cases of missing tooth replacement, a dental implant would be the ideal solution for missing dentition, in terms of longevity, functionality and aesthetically. That being said, in cases where a dental implant is not suitable, a dental bridge can provide an effective solution to a missing tooth, or multiple missing teeth where suitable.
How do I know if I am suitable for dental bridge treatment?
It is essential that you have a full consultation so that the dentist can create a comprehensive treatment plan that works best for you and your smile.
To organise a consultation with one of our clinicians, contact our patient care team on 091 757 678 or email info@renmoredental.ie for more information.
A list of all treatments we offer at the practice can be found in our treatment section.
