As the name suggests, dental bridges bridge the gap left by missing teeth. A bridge is generally made up of a crown on each of the teeth adjoining the gap and a false tooth to replace each of the missing teeth. The false teeth, called pontics, can be made from porcelain, gold or alloys. Bridges restore a full smile and help maintain the shape of the face. They provide the ability to speak and chew properly and prevent teeth from moving out of position.
Dental bridges come in three main forms. Traditional bridges, made from ceramics, or from porcelain fused to metal, are the most common type. A crown is created for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth and a pontic for the missing tooth in between. Cantilever bridges are utilised when the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth only has adjacent teeth to one side. Maryland bonded bridges involve plastic teeth and gums with a metal framework being bonded to the existing teeth by metal wings.
Several appointments may be required to ensure that a comfortable and functional bridge is created. On the first visit, the adjoining (abutment) teeth are prepared. A portion of the tooth’s enamel is removed to make room for the crown which will be placed over them. Impressions of your teeth are made. The crowns, pontic and bridge will be made from the resulting mould. In order to protect the now exposed teeth while your bridge is being made in a dental laboratory, your dentist will make a temporary bridge. The permanent bridge replaces this temporary bridge during the second visit and fit is checked and adjusted. Further visits may be required to check fit and bite.
Raynesway Dental in Derby provides high quality bridges. If a missing tooth is making your smile incomplete, contact us today for further information. Check out our testimonials to see just how highly past patients rate their satisfaction with our service.
