DENTAL BRIDGES AT BOROUGH DENTAL CARE
Dental bridges are an effective solution for restoring areas where one or more teeth are missing. They help bridge gaps, improving both function and appearance. While traditional bridges are supported by natural teeth, advances in dental technology now allow Borough Dental Care to offer implant-supported dental bridges in London, providing a more robust solution for larger gaps. For traditional dental bridges, neighbouring teeth are prepared for crowns, and the bridge is then permanently secured to fill the missing tooth space.
WHAT ARE DENTAL BRIDGES?
A dental bridge is a custom-made piece designed to fill in gaps left by missing teeth, attaching securely to your existing tooth or implant. Traditionally, dental bridges have a metal framework, but modern zirconium-based materials offer a metal-free alternative that looks natural and is durable. Resin-bonded bridges are a simpler, faster option for closing small gaps, utilising a metal wing cemented to an adjacent tooth to hold a ceramic replacement in place for a seamless smile.
WHY CHOOSE DENTAL BRIDGES?
At Borough Dental Care, dental bridges serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Missing teeth in the front of the mouth impact speech, eating, and overall appearance. Gaps left by back teeth can cause dietary limitations and diminish enjoyment of food. Dental bridges can replace loose dentures, providing a secure, long-term solution that restores confidence in smiling and eating.
During your consultation, one of our dentists will assess your needs, discuss options, and plan your treatment. We’ll take preoperative photos, measure your tooth shade, and, if necessary, create impressions for a diagnostic wax-up to ensure the perfect fit.
BENEFITS OF DENTAL BRIDGES
Dental bridges offer a variety of benefits, including:
Restoring a natural-looking smile
Improving speech and pronunciation
Maintaining facial structure by preventing jawbone loss
Enhancing chewing efficiency and preventing bite issues by filling gaps
DENTAL BRIDGES IN LONDON: CONSIDERATIONS
Though dental bridges provide many benefits, there are considerations to keep in mind:
- Damage to the supporting teeth could weaken the bridge
- Poorly fitted crowns may allow plaque and bacteria to enter, leading to tooth decay
- Structural changes to the anchoring teeth may affect your bite
- Weak abutment teeth may require reinforcement or implants to ensure the bridge’s stability
- In some cases, weakened abutment teeth may later need to be replaced with dental implants
Resin-Bonded Bridges
- Minimal tooth preparation is required, reducing the need for local anaesthesia.
- A custom impression and smile design are sent to our expert ceramist for crafting.
- Resin-bonded bridges are more affordable and less invasive than traditional bridges but may have a shorter lifespan.
Implant-Retained Bridges
- Implant-retained bridges are a highly durable alternative to natural teeth, ideal for larger gaps.
- Configurations can vary based on individual needs. Our dentists will guide you through the process from consultation to final fitting.
COMMON MATERIALS FOR DENTAL BRIDGES
Zirconia:
Zirconia is one of the strongest materials used for crowns and bridges, often made from partially stabilised tetragonal polycrystalline zirconia with yttrium oxide. This material provides high durability with strength levels exceeding 900 MPa.
Porcelain Bonded to Metal:
This bridge type combines a white porcelain layer with a metal base. The metal core offers strength, while the porcelain coating provides a natural look. However, as gums recede over time, a black line (the metal base) may become visible, which can affect aesthetics. Fully ceramic bridges avoid this issue.
Emax:
Emax bridges are crafted from lithium disilicate glass ceramic, known for high strength, aesthetics, and durability. Developed by IvoclarVivadent, Emax provides excellent translucency and resilience for a natural-looking result that withstands daily wear.
AFTERCARE AND MAINTENANCE FOR DENTAL BRIDGES
Adjusting to a new bridge may take a few days. We’ll invite you back for a follow-up appointment a few weeks after the bridge fitting to check its condition, your oral health, and the cosmetic outcome. Although a bridge helps restore functionality, it’s essential to maintain a strict oral hygiene routine, including regular professional cleaning, as gum disease and tooth decay can still occur around a bridge.
Regular check-ups are crucial for ensuring the longevity of your bridge. In some cases, capped teeth may require a root canal several years after the bridge is fitted. Contact Borough Dental Care to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists.