There are three main types of dental bridges:
1. 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.
2. Resin Bonded Bridges or Maryland bonded bridges
These are opted when the gap to be filled is in between the front teeth and when the adjacent 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 using resin that is hidden from view.
3. Cantilever Bridges
These are opted for areas such as the front teeth that are susceptible to lower stress. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth present only one side of the space, where the false tooth is anchored to one or more adjacent teeth on one side.
Procedure:
At the first appointment:
- The dentist will numb the area with a mild anaesthetic.
- The teeth on either side of the space are prepared by trimming away a small area in order to accommodate the new crown over them.
- The dentist then uses dental putty to make an impression of the teeth, which will be used to make the bridge and crown in the laboratory.
- A temporary bridge is fitted in to protect the exposed gums and teeth
- A Vita shade guide may be used to determine the right shade for the dental bridge, by selecting a shade that resembles natural colour variations in your teeth, as well as suits your complexion, hair colour, the colour of your natural teeth and even your eye colour.
At the second appointment:
- The temporary bridge is removed and the custom made bridge is fitted in and checked for its fit and bite, and adjusted accordingly. It is then cemented in place
- Often multiple visits are required to check and adjust the fit.
- In case of permanent or fixed bridges, the bridge is temporarily cemented in for a couple of weeks and checked for its fit. It is permanently cemented in only after several weeks.
How long will dental bridges last?
Dental bridges can last 10-15 years provided that you maintain good dental hygiene and eating habits. |
