Dental Bridges in Sevenoaks
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It can help restore the appearance of your smile and improve your ability to bite and chew.
At Sevenoaks Dental & Implant Centre, dental bridge treatment is planned according to your individual dental needs. Your dentist will assess the missing tooth or teeth, the surrounding teeth and your overall oral health before discussing the available options with you.
If you have a gap caused by a missing tooth and would like to explore fixed tooth replacement options, a dental bridge may be one of the treatments worth considering.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is designed to fill a gap created by one or more missing teeth. The replacement tooth or teeth are supported using the surrounding teeth or another suitable support, depending on the type of bridge selected.
The bridge is made to fit your mouth and is designed to work with your natural teeth and surrounding structures.
Your dentist will assess your individual situation and explain whether a dental bridge is suitable for you.
Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
A missing tooth can affect more than the appearance of your smile. Depending on its position, tooth loss can also affect chewing and the way your remaining teeth come together.
Replacing a missing tooth may help:
- Restore the appearance of your smile
- Improve chewing function
- Restore a more complete dental arch
- Support normal speech where tooth loss has affected pronunciation
- Reduce the space available for neighbouring teeth to move into
The most appropriate way to replace a missing tooth depends on your dental health, the location of the gap and your individual circumstances.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridge, and the most appropriate option depends on the location of the missing tooth, the condition of the surrounding teeth and other clinical factors.
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional bridge is supported by prepared teeth adjacent to the space. The supporting teeth are used to hold the replacement tooth or teeth securely in position.
Maryland Dental Bridges
A Maryland bridge uses a supporting framework that is bonded to suitable teeth next to the gap. This type of bridge may be considered in selected situations where a more conservative approach is appropriate.
Cantilever Dental Bridges
A cantilever bridge is supported from one side of the gap rather than from teeth on both sides. It is only suitable in particular circumstances and your dentist will assess whether this option is appropriate.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Some bridges can be supported by dental implants rather than relying entirely on natural teeth. Implant-supported bridgework may be considered when several adjacent teeth are missing and the clinical conditions are suitable.
Your dentist can explain the advantages and limitations of the different options during your consultation.
Who May Be Suitable for Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges may be considered for patients who have one or more missing teeth and are looking for a fixed tooth replacement option.
Your suitability will depend on factors including:
- The location and size of the gap
- The condition of the neighbouring teeth
- The health of your gums
- The amount of supporting tooth structure available
- Your bite
- Your overall oral health
- The type of bridge being considered
Your dentist will carry out an assessment before recommending treatment.
What Happens During Dental Bridge Treatment?
The treatment process varies according to the type of bridge being provided, but treatment generally involves several stages.
1. Consultation and Assessment
Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums and the area where the tooth is missing. Your treatment options will be discussed with you.
2. Treatment Planning
If a dental bridge is suitable, your dentist will explain the proposed treatment and the type of bridge being considered.
3. Preparing the Supporting Teeth
Where the bridge requires natural teeth for support, the relevant teeth may need to be prepared so that the bridge can be fitted appropriately.
4. Creating the Bridge
Information about your teeth and the treatment area is used to create a bridge designed to fit your mouth.
5. Fitting the Bridge
Once the bridge is ready, your dentist will check its fit, appearance and function before securing it in place.
6. Aftercare
You will receive advice about caring for the bridge and maintaining good oral hygiene around the restoration.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can provide both functional and aesthetic benefits for suitable patients.
Potential benefits include:
- Replacing a missing tooth or teeth
- Restoring the appearance of a complete smile
- Improving chewing function
- Supporting normal speech
- Providing a fixed alternative to a removable denture in suitable cases
- Helping restore the overall shape of the dental arch
Your dentist will discuss the expected benefits and limitations of treatment before you decide whether to proceed.