Your guide to Bridges

Q. What is a Bridge?

A bridge is a porcelain/metal false tooth, which mimics the natural appearance of the tooth it is replacing and is permanently fixed to other teeth in the mouth.

Q. Why do I need a Bridge?

When a tooth has been lost treatment options available are:

1. Do nothing and accept the space present.
2. Provision of a partial denture.
3. Provision of a bridge.
4. Provision of an implant.

Each of these options has advantages and disadvantages. The main reasons for replacing the missing tooth is to prevent movement of both the adjacent teeth and the teeth in the opposite dental arch and to give a good appearance.

Q. What types of bridges are available?

Bridges are available in various forms and design. Common designs utilise either a present crown to support the bridge or bond a metal arm onto the back of a sound tooth. The type of bridge used depends on the area of the mouth, the aesthetics required and the financial cost.

Q. What will the treatment involve?

If the tooth is alive local anaesthetic is given so that no discomfort will be felt. The tooth will then need to be trimmed to the correct shape so that there is enough space present for the bridge to be built by the laboratory. A silicone impression is then taken which is sent with an impression of the opposing dental arch to the laboratory for the bridge to be made. A temporary bridge will be made at the chairside and fitted in the interim.

Q. How many appointments will this take?

The provision of a bridge requires a minimum of two appointments (with some initial appointments for treatment planning), one for the trimming of the tooth and a second for removal of the temporary bridge and the cementing of the permanent bridge. The appointments usually need to be at least five working days apart.

Q. Will the treatment last forever?

A bridge replacing a missing tooth is a repair of a damaged unit and has a limited lifespan. Problems may shorten the bridge's lifespan such as decay, fracture or loss of the supporting tooth. Usually a bridge would be expected to last 5-7 years before it will require replacing, but bridges often last longer than this period.

Q. How can I prevent this happening again?

The simple way to avoid this is by good dental care to initially prevent decay and regular examinations to detect and prevent future problems. All patients taking part in amateur sports are advised to wear a mouthguard, which is especially important to protect your bridge.