A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This permanent solution restores both function and appearance, helping you chew properly and maintain your smile.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, adults aged 18 years and over had an average of 6.4 missing teeth in 2017-18. When teeth are missing and not replaced promptly, adjacent teeth can shift, leading to bite problems and increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
“Replacing missing teeth with a bridge helps maintain proper dental alignment and prevents further oral health complications,” says Dr Sarah Chen, DDS, from the Australian Dental Association.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth replacement that literally bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap; these anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth, and a false tooth or teeth in between, known as a pontic. The pontic can be made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, or a combination of these materials.
Unlike dentures that can be removed, a bridge is cemented into place using dental cement. This fixed bridge stays permanently in your mouth, functioning like your natural teeth. The bridge is used to restore your ability to chew, maintain the shape of your face, prevent remaining teeth from shifting, and improve your speech and smile.
Getting a dental bridge typically requires multiple visits to your dentist. During the first visit, the abutment teeth are prepared by recontouring them to make room for the crown that will be placed over them. Your dentist will take impressions of your prepared teeth, which will serve as a model for the dental laboratory to create the bridge. A temporary bridge may be worn to protect the exposed teeth and gums while your permanent bridge is ready.
How Does a Dental Bridge Work?
A bridge works by using the strength of your existing healthy teeth on either side of the gap to support the artificial tooth or teeth. The dentist prepares the two healthy teeth adjacent to the missing tooth by removing a portion of the enamel and tooth structure to allow room for a crown to be placed over them.
Once the prepared teeth are ready, impressions are taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where technicians make the bridge to fit precisely. The bridge consists of the two dental crowns that fit over the abutment teeth and the pontic (false teeth) that fill the gap. The entire unit is fabricated as one piece.
When your new bridge arrives from the dental laboratory, your dentist will inspect the fit and make any necessary adjustments before permanently cementing it in place. The bridge in place functions just like your natural teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak normally. With proper care, bridges can last many years, though the bridge may need replacement eventually due to normal wear.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridge options available, each designed for different situations depending on the location of missing teeth and the condition of surrounding teeth.
1. Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge and involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. The traditional dental bridge is made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics and requires healthy teeth on both sides of the gap to support the bridge.
This type requires the dentist to remove enamel from the two abutment teeth to prepare them for the crowns that hold the bridge. The procedure involves placing crowns on these anchor teeth, which permanently alters their structure. Traditional bridges are strong and durable, making them ideal for replacing teeth that endure significant chewing forces.
2. Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but is supported on only one side rather than both. This type is used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The cantilever dental bridge is anchored to one or more abutment teeth on just one side of the missing tooth.
Because the bridge is only supported on one side, it’s not recommended for back teeth where biting forces are strongest. The single-sided support means these bridges could experience more stress, potentially leading to complications. Your implant dentist or general dentist may recommend this option when only one adjacent tooth is available.
3. Maryland (Bonded) Dental Bridge
A Maryland bridge, also called a resin-bonded bridge, is a more conservative alternative that requires minimal tooth preparation. Instead of crowns, this bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth. The pontic is attached to metal or ceramic wings that are bonded to the existing teeth.
This type of bridge doesn’t require extensive reshaping of the abutment teeth like a traditional bridge does, making it a less invasive option. Maryland dental bridges are typically used to replace front teeth, where the biting forces are less intense. However, the bonding strength is not as strong as that of cement used in traditional bridges, so they may not be suitable for all locations in the mouth.
4. Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, making it the strongest and most stable option. Instead of being supported by natural teeth, the bridge is attached to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. Typically, one implant is surgically placed for every missing tooth, and these implants hold the bridge in position.
The implant-supported option is ideal when you have several consecutive missing teeth. This type of bridge doesn’t require preparing adjacent natural teeth, preserving their structure. The procedure involves placing titanium implant posts into the jawbone, which then fuse with the bone over several months through a process called osseointegration. Once the implants are secure, the bridge is attached.
While dental implants and dental bridges both replace missing teeth, an implant-supported bridge offers superior stability and helps prevent bone loss in the jaw. The implant treatment does require surgery and takes longer to complete than other bridge types, but many dental professionals consider it the gold standard for missing teeth replacement.
What Is a Dental Bridge Made Of?
Dental bridges can be crafted from various materials, each offering different benefits in terms of strength, appearance, and durability. The most common materials include porcelain, ceramics, porcelain fused to metal, gold alloys, and metal alloys.
Porcelain and ceramic materials are popular choices because they can be colour-matched to your natural teeth, providing excellent aesthetics. These materials work particularly well for front teeth, where appearance is paramount. Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
Metal bridges, including gold and other alloys, are extremely strong and resistant to wear, though they’re more noticeable in the mouth. These are often recommended for back teeth where strength is more important than appearance. The choice of material depends on factors including the location of the missing tooth, functional requirements, aesthetic concerns, and budget considerations. Your dentist can help you decide which material is best for your specific situation.
Dental Bridge vs Dental Implant
When considering replacement options for missing teeth, understanding the differences between a dental bridge and a dental implant is crucial. Both are effective solutions, but they work differently and suit different circumstances.
A dental implant involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone that acts as an artificial tooth root. A crown is then attached to the implant. Dental implants last potentially a lifetime with proper care and don’t require altering adjacent healthy teeth. However, they require surgery, take several months to complete, and typically involve a higher initial investment.
In contrast, a dental bridge doesn’t require surgery and can typically be completed in two to three visits over a couple of weeks. The bridge could be more economical initially, though it requires reshaping the adjacent natural teeth on both sides to support the crowns. Bridges typically last 10-15 years before needing replacement, while dental implants can last much longer.
The crown or bridge attached to implants helps preserve jawbone because the implant stimulates the bone like a natural tooth root. Traditional bridges don’t provide this stimulation, which can lead to bone loss over time. Research comparing long-term outcomes shows that over 20 years, the accumulated costs of replacing bridges can rival or even surpass the initial investment in dental implants due to their superior longevity and minimal maintenance needs.
Your dentist may recommend a bridge if you want a quicker solution, prefer to avoid surgery, or have insufficient bone density for implants. Dental implants might be better if you want a long-term solution, wish to preserve healthy tooth structure, or need to replace multiple teeth. The dentist can help determine which option aligns best with your oral health needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?
Determining whether you need a dental bridge depends on several factors related to your oral health, the number of teeth missing, and your overall dental condition. A bridge can replace one or more teeth effectively, restoring both function and appearance.
Good candidates for dental bridges typically have healthy teeth and gums on either side of the gap. The abutment teeth must be strong enough to support the bridge and shouldn’t have significant decay or gum disease. If you have tooth decay or periodontal disease, these conditions need treatment before getting a dental bridge.
Several factors help determine if a bridge is your best tooth replacement option. These include the location and number of teeth that need to be replaced, the condition of adjacent teeth, your jawbone health, and your budget. For instance, if you’re missing a single tooth and have strong teeth on both sides, a traditional bridge might be ideal.
However, if you’re missing several teeth or have weak adjacent teeth, other replacement options like a partial denture or implant-supported bridge might be more suitable. Some situations where a bridge may not be recommended include poor oral health, insufficient bone support, or when preserving natural tooth structure is a priority.
The best way to know if a dental bridge is right for you is to talk to your dentist. They will examine your teeth and mouth, discuss your goals and concerns, and help you decide which tooth or teeth replacement option best meets your needs. Many dental professionals offer consultations to review all available treatment options and create a personalised plan.
Conclusion
A dental bridge offers an effective solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both function and confidence. Whether you choose a traditional bridge, cantilever bridge, Maryland bridge, or implant-supported bridge depends on your specific needs, oral health, and preferences. While the procedure requires careful consideration and involves altering adjacent teeth in most cases, a properly fitted bridge can last many years with good oral health practices.
If you’re considering getting a dental restoration, consult with your dentist to explore whether crowns and bridges or other replacement options align with your needs. With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, your bridge could provide reliable service while helping maintain your teeth and gum health for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care, a dental bridge typically lasts 10-15 years, though some can last longer. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene help extend the lifespan of your bridge.
Is a dental bridge permanent?
Yes, a dental bridge is a fixed, permanent restoration that’s cemented in place and cannot be removed by the patient. Only your dentist can remove it if necessary.
Can food get stuck under a dental bridge?
Food particles can occasionally get trapped under a bridge. Use dental floss or interdental brushes daily to clean around and under your bridge, maintaining good oral health.
Are dental bridges covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for bridges, typically covering 50-80% of the procedure after deductibles. Check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
