Dental Bridge Work
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ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT MISSING TEETH? |
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IS IT AFFECTING YOUR CHEWING ABILITY |
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ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT CHANGES IN SHAPE TO YOUR FACE? |
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WOULD FOR PREFER FIXED TEETH?
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If the answer is yes to any of the questions above then bridges may be the answer for you.
Two main types of dental bridges are available:
Adhesive Bridges
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Adhesive bridges (also known as Maryland, Rochette bridges, resin-bonded bridges) involve minimal preparation of the adjacent teeth and are not removable. They are suitable for replacing usually one tooth. The main advantages of these types of bridges are that they involve minimal involvement of any adjacent teeth and often the procedure may be carried out under local anaesthetic. However, adhesive bridges can and often do de-bond from the tooth. They can however re-bonded to the tooth again by your dentist. They bridges are not recommended for patients with heavy bites or tooth grinding habits. In good cases adhesive bridges may last up to 5 years prior to replacement.
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Patients who suffer from recurrent de-bonding of their adhesive bridge who desire a fixed solution should consider replacing adhesive bridges with fixed bridges. However, this would involve additional preparation of the adjacent teeth. Another, fixed alternative would be dental implants.
Fixed Bridgework (Bridge)
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Bridges provide a means of replacing missing teeth. Teeth on either side of the space are prepared to receive the bridge. Bridges are fixed they are not removable. Bridges can be used to replace from one to multiple teeth.
Bridgework involves placing two crowns on the teeth either side of the gap. These teeth are known as the abutment teeth. The false teeth in between are known as the pontics. Bridges can made from porcelain, gold, alloys or a combination of these materials. Bridges may be supported by either natural teeth or implants. Bridges if well cared for by the patient can often last up to ten years or more. It is important that you attend the surgery at regular intervals for your recall appointment in order for the dentist help check and maintain your bridge. |
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1. Inspection, examination, X-rays, photographs, consultation.
2. Preparation. The teeth are carefully prepared into the appropriate shape to receive the crown; an imprint (impression) is taken of the preparation, neighbouring teeth and opposing teeth. A temporary bridge/denture is worn by the patient until the next appointment.
3. Cementation. The temporary bridge/denture is removed and the fabricated bridge is cemented or bonded into place.