It is important to replace missing teeth in your smile, not just because it can really affect confidence. Replacing teeth prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, causing alignment issues. It also protects the otherwise vulnerable gums.
Bridges are a more secure alternative to partial dentures as they are fixed. We can also use a bridge in combination with implants to replace more than one missing tooth.
Begin your treatment journeyAdhesive dental bridges and Maryland dental bridges involve no or very little preparation of the neighbouring tooth, which has made them the most popular bridge design currently available.
Adhesive dental bridges, also known as resin bonded dental bridges, are the modern type of fixed bridge that have nowadays more or less replaced conventional fixed dental bridges. Resin bonded bridges do not require any tooth reduction and so do not cause any damage to neighbouring teeth. In adhesive bridges, the false tooth is bonded using a framework wing to the inside wall of one neighbouring tooth. They are also often cheaper than conventional bridges.
Maryland bridges are made from a specially formulated, highly durable porcelain, and held in place with metal wings that are fixed to the neighbouring tooth. Maryland bridges are a type of no-drilling adhesive dental bridge which are very popular as they do not need the neighbouring teeth to be shaved down. These bridges are generally more suitable for patients with missing teeth at the front of their mouth.
Learn more about Maryland bridgesConventional bridges involve preparing the two neighbouring teeth (abutments) by removing a layer of enamel so crowns can be fitted. The false tooth is then fused to the abutment crowns. Conventional bridges are less likely to debond than the adhesive option, and last for around 10-15 years on average.
Contact us to learn moreDuring a consultation, the neighbouring teeth are clinically assessed and an X-ray is taken to ensure the tooth roots are sound.
The neighbouring teeth are then prepared (if necessary) and digital scans are taken. We use the iTero handheld wand to take a digital 3D image of your teeth, preventing the need for traditional impressions which can cause some patients to gag. The digital image is then sent straight to the laboratory and work can start on the bridge construction immediately. A temporary restoration is provided if needed to protect your teeth and gums.
When your final bridge is ready, we fit it in place using high strength resin cement. This provides a chemical bond between the tooth and the bridge. In order to increase the bond strength between the tooth and the bridge, at Pearl Dental Clinic we use the AquaCare Air Abrasion system which uses high pressure aluminium oxide particles to create an additional mechanical bond for the bridge. This significantly reduces the risk of the bridge debonding in the future.
Book an appointmentYou need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot reach.
Whatever you need, our friendly team is looking forward to hearing from you.
Simply get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
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