bridges

What are they?

A bridge replaces a missing tooth (or teeth) by fixing the replacement to the natural teeth at each side of the gap. Some bridges have crowns at each end. Others are fixed to the surface of the teeth next to the gap. Sometimes a bridge is only fixed to the tooth on one side of the gap.

Bridges are made of metal and porcelain, or on occasions just porcelain.

What will my dentist do?

There are several stages in making a bridge.

• The dentist uses soft, mouldable material to take impressions of your mouth. A dental technician makes exact plaster models of your upper and lower teeth and gums, which show how your teeth bite together
• The teeth which will support the bridge are prepared so that the bridge is not too bulky.
• Another impression is taken of the teeth and any gaps and the dental technician uses this to make the bridge. A plastic temporary bridge or temporary crown may be fitted in the meantime.
• At your final visit, the dentist will check that the bridge fits, make any minor adjustments and then fix it permanently in place.

Your dentist or hygienist will show you the best way of keeping your new bridge clean