A dental bridge is a form of false teeth replacing the space of a missing tooth that is permanently in the mouth. A dental bridge can replace multiple missing teeth, but this is something that your Parramatta dentist has to assess and see.

The crowns for the dental bridge are usually made from the same material available to Dental Crowns, like porcelain, metal, a mixture of the two and zirconia. In some cases, composite resin and temporary filling material may also be used in order to hold spaces for later.

Though the principle is the same, there are three different types of bridges:

1. Traditional Bridge

How this is done is by placing two crowns on neighbouring teeth on either side of the gap where the missing tooth is, then suspending a false tooth along the gums of the gap to give you the appearance of a full set. Similar to a bridge, there is nothing attached to the gums under the bridge, but it is held in by the two teeth that acts like an anchor of the bridge.

2. Maryland Bridge

Similar to the traditional bridge but less invasive, a single tooth will be built to replace the missing space attached to two ‘wings’ that are then bonded on the back of the neighbouring teeth. Out of the bridges, this is considered the least invasive type. There are some drawbacks as it cannot withstand a lot of pressure.

3. Cantilever Bridge

Similar to the traditional bridge, the Cantilever will only need one neighbouring tooth to be crowned in order to suspend the false tooth in the space. Though it is less damaging to neighbouring teeth, it can only withstand a certain amount of force and therefore is not for all teeth.

Sometimes, in cases where there are multiple missing teeth, implant dental bridges may also be an option for you. All of these options will be discussed with your dentist and whether it is the best fit for you. To understand what are the disadvantages and advantages of these bridges for your teeth, please come see us at Parramatta Dentistry for an in depth consultation.

A dental bridge is an option when it comes to replacing the space where teeth are missing. The advantages of the a dental bridge is that:

• It gives you a fuller smile
• Allows you to eat and chew as before
• Spreads out the force within the mouth
• Prevents teeth from shifting into the missing space

The main disadvantage is that it does require the neighbouring teeth to be crowned in order for the false tooth to be held in place. Similar to natural teeth, good oral hygiene is required in maintenance and care of the bridge in order to prevent issues with them.

Like with all restorative treatment, over time bridges will need to be replaced or repaired. The usual lifetime is around 5 – 10 years with good oral hygiene and care.

At Parramatta Dentistry we recommend regular 6 monthly maintenance for your dental crowns in the forms of dental exam and dental cleaning.

Both dental bridges and dental implants have their advantages and disadvantages. To learn more, please read our article “Which Is Better? Bridge Or Implant?” on the Parramatta Dentistry blog to see which one suits you more.

If you are still confused, we are more than welcome to see you at our practice.