Dental Bridges provide a fantastic alternative to missing teeth. At Forest Dental Care, we are experts in helping you discover and maintain the best possible smile. Contact our specialists on 020 8521 3777 for more information.
Dental bridges are used to fill in gaps that exist due to missing or damaged teeth. They provide not only aesthetic benefits but can assist with improved oral health. The structure of a standard bridge consists of supporting structures known as ‘abutments’, and fake teeth or ‘pontics’.
Forest Dental Care provide different kinds of bridges, customised to a patient’s individual needs:
- Traditional Dental Bridge This is primarily used when natural teeth are found on both sides of the gap. The bridges are made up of pontics and crowns which are bonded to the natural teeth to fill the space.
- Cantilever Dental Bridge This is used when the natural teeth are healthy only on one side of the gap.
- Maryland Dental Bridge This is also known as a resin-bonded bridge. It uses wings of steel instead of crowns in order to anchor it in place. Bridges like these are popular to replace the front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge This option has bridges anchored on dental implants, rather than the natural teeth. They provide secure solutions when three or more teeth are missing.
The advantages and risks of Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges produce natural-looking results which restore oral functions and prevent adjacent teeth from moving into or filling the gap.
It should be noted, however, that damage can occasionally occur to the supporting teeth and this could make the bridge less secure. Furthermore, as with natural teeth, insufficient cleaning can lead to gum irritation. To prevent this, it is essential to keep up with a good daily hygiene routine.
Recuperation following a Dental Bridge procedure:
Healing time differs from patient to patient. In general, it takes between one and two weeks for your gums to recover completely. When properly cared for, by avoiding hard and chewy food too often, and with regular check-ups at the dentist, bridges can last between five and 15 years.
