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Dental bridges are used to replace damaged or missing teeth. Many people lose teeth; usually this is a result of an injury or accident or tooth decay. A dental bridge uses a fake tooth to fill the gap left by a missing tooth.

Forms of dental bridge

Dentists in Halifax offer three main types of dental bridge; these include a long-established fixed bridge, a cantilever bridge and a resin bonded bridge. A traditional fixed bridge is made up of a false tooth (also known as a pontic) and two crowns; the crowns are supported by the existing teeth on either side of the new pontic. A resin bonded bridge (also known as a Maryland bonded bridge) is normally used when there is a gap in the front teeth and the teeth either side of the gap are strong enough to support the bridge. A cantilever bridge is used by dentists when there is only a tooth on one side of the gap; the bridge is supported by one or more teeth on one side of the new tooth.

What is the bridge made of?

Most people have bridges either made entirely from porcelain or a mixture of porcelain and metal. You can also get bridges that are made from precious metals, such as gold.

How long does a bridge last?

If the bridge is well looked-after it should last around 15 years; this involves taking care of the new tooth as if it were a normal tooth and brushing, flossing and rinsing regularly. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly.

Is the bridge visible?

Bridges that are made from porcelain are very natural looking and they should blend in with the other teeth; metal bridges are very visible, so it depends on which type of bridge you choose.