BRidges

Bridges are fixed replacements for missing teeth that involve an artificial tooth anchored to two adjacent natural teeth. They are made of tough durable ceramic material and are very lifelike in appearance. All three teeth are connected together and the artifical tooth sits flush with the gum. They have the advantage over dentures in that they are fixed in place and do not need to be removed. Compared to implants, they are faster to have made and do not involve a surgical procedure (although they do require a small amount to tooth removal from the teeth either side).

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Types of Bridges

Traditional Bridge

A traditional bridge is an artificial tooth supported on either side by crowned teeth. They are the most common type and are generally the strongest. 

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Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is where an artificial tooth is supported only on one side by a crowned natural tooth. They are suitable for replacement of smaller teeth that are next to a strong rooted adjacent tooth (such as a premolar supported by a molar). They are not quite as strong as a traditional bridge however, in the right position they are more than strong enough. They also have the advantage that they require fewer crowns, meaning lower cost and less tooth requires preparation prior to fitting. 

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Maryland Bridge

A Maryland Bridge is an artificial tooth suspended from two thin plates or "wings" cemented on the teeth either side. The wings are hidden behind the teeth and bonded in place. They are the most conservative type of bridge however, they rely on good enamel bond to remain in place and are often only suitable for missing front teeth. 

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Process and Appointments

A bridge is typically completed over two appointments with about 2 weeks in-between.

 

Appointment 1 (Approx 1 hour)

After the area is numbed with a local anaesthetic, the teeth are shaped, making them smaller by about 1mm. After shaping, an impression (mould) of the teeth and the opposing teeth is taken. 

The impressions are sent to a dental technician (ceramist) who makes the bridge according to Dr. Logue's specificiations. 

To protect the prepared tooth, a temporary bridge or crowns are cemented with temporary cement.

As a temporary bridge is not as strong as the final product, you should chew on the opposite side of the mouth and avoid stick or hard foods. 

 

Appointment 2 (Approx Half an Hour)

At this second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed. The new bridge is placed over the teeth and the shape and shade are checked. When the fit and look of the bridge is correct the bridge is cemented in place with dental cement. This cement is set with a curing light. Minor adjustments are then made to make the bite comfortable. 

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Bridges need to be precisely made to fine tolerances so on occasion a second fitting appointment is required. 

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Cleaning and Caring for Your Bridge

Crowns and bridges require regular flossing and brushing, with extra attention around the margins where decay can occur. Special devices such as floss threaders and "superfloss" should be used to clean underneath the artificial tooth of the bridge. 

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