A bridge fixes a replacement tooth (or teeth) to one or more remaining natural teeth or implants. Some bridges have crowns at each end. Others are fixed to the surface of the teeth next to the gap. Sometimes a bridge is only fixed to the tooth on one side of the gap.
Bridges are made of metal and porcelain or sometimes just porcelain.
There are several stages in making a bridge:
It may be possible to restore small spaces with one or more dental implants. This has the advantages that adjacent teeth do not need to be cut, but the disadvantages that a surgical procedure is required, and treatment time may be extended. Implants are not widely available within the NHS, apart from in certain solutions.
Another option for a small space could be a ‘minimum preparation bridge’, where the false tooth is held in place with a wing that is bonded on to adjacent teeth. This involves less destruction of tooth tissue but can require repair or replacement.
Longer, or multiple, spaces may be restored with acrylic or metal partial dentures. These are removable and so are easier to keep clean; it is also easier to clean the adjacent natural teeth. However, some patients find dentures difficult to tolerate.
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