Missing a tooth or even teeth? We can bridge the gap!

Bridges can serve as a cosmetic and functional solution if you have a gap created by one or more missing teeth. They can help to improve the appearance of your smile and restore function of the mouth to allow for easier chewing or even speaking. If you have a missing tooth or even teeth, we recommend discussing this simple, effective way of improving your oral health.

WHAT ARE BRIDGES?

dental bridge sheppertonA bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that is cemented onto the existing teeth on either side of a gap. A crown that will replicate the missing tooth or teeth is joined to crowns made to fit over the neighbouring teeth. This creates the ‘bridge’ support that fills the gap in your mouth.

During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the teeth beside the gap, removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them. Impressions of your teeth are sent to the dental laboratory to allow of the bridge to be custom-made to your mouth. After your existing teeth are prepared, your dentist will make a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums. At the next appointment, your temporary bridge will be replaced with a permanent one and will be permanently cemented into place to bridge the gap in your mouth.

LEARN ABOUT PROSTHODONTICS (SPECIALIST TEETH RESTORATION AND REPLACEMENT TREATMENT)

NEED TO KNOW

APPOINTMENTS

  • At least 2 appointments 
    • At the first visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth adjacent to the gap and impressions of your teeth are made for the technician to form a model of the bridge. We will make you a temporary bridge to wear to protect your teeth.
    • At the second visit, your new bridge will be permanently cemented into place
  • Further appointments may be needed once the bridge has been fitted, this will be to check or adjust the fit as advised by your dentist at Confident Smile

HOW LONG IT TAKES?

  • The first appointment is usually around 60 to 90 minutes
  • The fitting of the bridge will take around 60 to 90 minutes

YOU MAY BE ASKED ABOUT

  • Your dental and medical history
  • Your regular oral care routine at home

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

No special preparation needed

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

  • With the temporary bridge, your dentist will advise you to avoid eating hard or sticky foods
  • With your permanent bridge, you may feel some discomfort while adjusting to it. We recommend soft foods for the first few days

QUICK TIP

Maintaining good oral hygiene will extend the life of your bridge. We recommend flossing daily, brushing twice daily and regularly visiting your dentist at Confident Smile and hygienist.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Learn more about some possible treatment options with your local Shepperton Dental practice. We recommend you book an appointment with a dentist to further discuss, so they can provide expert advice on getting your mouth on track.