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FIXED BRIDGES

At Eastgate Dental & Cosmetic Centre, fixed bridges involve the placement of a custom-made dental bridge to replace missing teeth restoring the appearance and function of the smile.

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FIXED BRIDGES

At Eastgate Dental & Cosmetic Centre, fixed bridges involve the placement of a custom-made dental bridge to replace missing teeth restoring the appearance and function of the smile.

WHAT ARE FIXED BRDIGES?

A bridge is a restoration that can be used to replace gaps in the mouth due to missing teeth. Teeth on either side of the gap act as anchors for the bridge, in which an artificial tooth (a pontic) attached to the anchor teeth spans the gap.
This type of bridge can also be supported by dental implants.

Teeth may be lost due to decay, trauma, gum disease or poor oral hygiene. This can lead to long term deterioration of facial appearance, speech, and function.
There are three types of bridges:
 
-    A Cantilever bridge utilises teeth on one side of the gap only as anchors, which can be one or more teeth​
 
-    A Maryland bridge utilises teeth on one or both sides. The artificial tooth is attached to metal wings that are bonded to these healthy teeth. This bridge type requires minimal to no preparation to the adjacent teeth and therefore, this method is highly conservative.

-    A Conventional fixed-fixed bridge utilises teeth on both sides of the gap as anchors, which can be one or more teeth.
Bridge materials range from precious metal to metal free ceramics with the latter offering superior aesthetics.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE  FOR FIXED BRDIGES?

Following an assessment to ensure the suitability for a bridge, teeth are normally prepared under local anaesthetic. There is a reduction of tooth material and size, followed by an analogue or digital impression of the prepared teeth. The reduction in size is to ensure there is space for the bridge to be fitted. This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory, which is when the bridge is fabricated by highly skilled technicians.
 
When the bridge is ready to be fitted, the bridge is tried in. This is to check the fit, colour, bite, and general appearance of the bridge. Finally, the bridge is cemented in with dental cement or adhesive.
 
A good quality and well-fitting bridge can last for 15 years with very minimal complications; however, the underlying tooth can still suffer from gum disease and decay if not cared for correctly with good flossing and tooth brushing technique, good dental hygiene is essential.
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  • How often should I book an appointment for the Hygienist?
    It depends on the individual, some people are more prone to gum disease and some people find it harder to keep their teeth clean. If your oral hygiene is good, we recommend booking an appointment with your dentist every 6 months, or if you are more prone, we recommend it as often as every 3 months.
  • Why are hygiene appointments important?
    Hygiene appointments are integral to maintaining your dental health and keeping your teeth and gums clean. Your appointments will also allow us to treat the different stages of gum disease and prevent any other issues before they develop further.
  • What are the signs of gum disease?
    Gum disease is very common in the UK but it often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Common symptoms to look out for include a swollen and red appearance to the gums, and tenderness and bleeding while brushing. Another common sign is the receding of the gums, and the feeling that your teeth are becoming looser.
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