What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges are synthetic teeth, which are anchored onto neighbouring teeth or dental implant in order to replace missing teeth. The advantages of dental bridges are that they are natural in appearance, they generally require only two appointments with the dentist.

Bridges usually have a good life period, lasting for 10-15 years providing that you maintain good dental hygiene. Dental Bridges can improve your appearance, bite issues and speech problems occurring as a result of missing teeth.

The artificial tooth is known as a pontic and is fused in between two dental crowns that serve as anchors by attaching to the teeth on each side of the false tooth, thereby bridging them together. Bridges are recommended when there are one or more teeth missing that affect, your smile and appearance, your bite and your speech.

Far Headingley Dental Care can provide a variety of dental bridge treatments subject to your needs…

There are several types of dental bridges. These include traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridges. The most appropriate type for you will depend on the location of your missing teeth and the health (including previous restorations) of the adjacent teeth

Traditional fixed bridge

This is the most commonly used type of bridge and consists of a pontic fused between two porcelain crowns that are anchored on neighbouring teeth or implants. The pontic is usually made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics. These are fixed and cannot be removed.

Resin-bonded bridges or Maryland-bonded bridges

These are chosen when the gap to be filled is in between the front teeth, or when the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are strong and healthy without large fillings. The false tooth is made of plastic and is fused to metal bands that are bonded to the adjacent teeth or dental implants using resin that is hidden from view.

Cantilever bridges

These are opted for in areas such as the front teeth that are susceptible to lower stress. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth present on only one side of the space, where the false tooth is anchored to one or more adjacent teeth on one side.

Bridges can be made of Porcelain, Porcelain bonded to precious metal and All-metal dental bridges (gold).

4 benefits of dental bridge treatments

Improved appearance, bite and speech
Natural looking and can me matched to your teeth
Can last a lifetime if looked after
Helps reduce movement in adjacent teeth

FAQ’s

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is used to replace a missing tooth It is attached permanently to its neighbouring teeth.

What is dental bridge treatment?

Having dental bridge treatment typically involves multiple visits to your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth (the teeth the bridge fixes to) by removing a portion of their enamel to make room for the crowns.

Impressions of your teeth are then taken. These are sent to a specialist dental laboratory to manufacture the bridge. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth whilst the new bridge is made. At the next appointment the temporary bridge is removed. The ne permanent bridge is carefully checked and fixed into place.

Get in touch

To discuss how Far Headingley Dental Care can help you replace your missing teeth through a dental bridge procedure, please complete the enquiry form on this page or call our practice in Leeds on 0113 275 1323 during normal office hours.