Dental Bridges: Restore Your Smile and Function Naturally

Dental bridges are an excellent solution for replacing one or more missing teeth, helping you regain a natural-looking smile that feels and functions just like your own teeth. Typically made from metal and porcelain or ceramic materials, bridges offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing way to fill gaps caused by tooth loss.

What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that “bridges” the space left by missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, bridges are permanently cemented onto adjacent teeth or implants, eliminating the inconvenience of removal and making daily oral care simpler.

Bridges not only restore your smile but also help maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth, improve your ability to chew and speak, and support the natural shape of your face.

Types of Dental Bridges We Offer at Goyt Valley Dental Practice:

• Traditional Bridge: The most common type, it involves creating crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap with a false tooth (pontic) in between. These bridges are usually made from porcelain fused to metal or ceramics, offering excellent strength and a natural appearance. This option provides robust support and is suitable for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row.

• Cantilever Bridge: Used when there are healthy teeth only on one side of the gap. The bridge is anchored to these adjacent teeth and is typically recommended for areas of the mouth that experience less chewing pressure. This design is less common but offers a valuable alternative when traditional bridges are not feasible.

• Maryland (Winged) Bridge: This minimally invasive option is ideal when the adjacent teeth are healthy and require little to no alteration. It consists of a false tooth with metal wings bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth using resin. This bridge preserves natural tooth structure and is best suited for replacing front teeth or areas with minimal biting forces.

The Bridge Process
During your initial consultation, we will assess your oral health and discuss the most suitable bridge type for your needs. The process typically involves preparing the supporting teeth by reshaping them to accommodate crowns (except in the case of Maryland bridges). We then take precise digital impressions or traditional moulds to design your custom bridge.

While your permanent bridge is being crafted in the dental laboratory, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth and maintain your smile. Once ready, your permanent bridge will be fitted, adjusted for comfort, and securely bonded.

Benefits of Dental Bridges:

• Restore the appearance and function of missing teeth.

• Prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position.

• Improve chewing and speech abilities.

• Provide a fixed, stable alternative to removable dentures.

• Enhance facial structure and confidence.

Care and Longevity
Dental bridges require good oral hygiene to maintain both the bridge and the supporting teeth. Regular brushing, flossing around the bridge, and routine dental check-ups are essential to prolong the life of your bridge, which can last many years with proper care.

Costs and Consultation
The cost of dental bridges varies based on the type of bridge and the complexity of your individual case. We invite you to contact our friendly team to arrange an initial consultation. During this visit, we will provide a detailed treatment plan tailored to your needs, along with a clear estimate of costs.