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Bridges
What are they?
A bridge fixes a replacement tooth (or teeth) to the
natural teeth on either side of the gap. 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.
What will my dentist do?
There are several stages in making a bridge:
- The dentist uses a soft, mouldable material to take
impressions of your mouth. A dental technician makes
exact plaster models of your upper and lower teeth
and gums, which show how your teeth bite together.
- The teeth that will support the bridge are prepared
to take the fixings and to make sure that the bridge
is not too bulky.
- Another impression is taken of the teeth and any
gaps, and the dental technician uses this to make the
bridge. A plastic temporary bridge or temporary crown
may be fitted in the meantime.
- At your final visit, the dentist will check that
the bridge fits, make any minor adjustments and then
fix it permanently in place. Your dentist or hygienist
will show you the best way of keeping your new bridge
clean.
What are the benefits?
- A bridge lets you almost forget that you have missing
teeth,
- It can improve the way you look, bite, chew and speak.
- The teeth can be matched to the colour of your own
teeth.
- A bridge can last many years, if you keep it clean
and if there is no accidental damage.
- Natural teeth are protected from wear and tear and
from moving or tilting out of line, which could cause
your teeth to bite together incorrectly.
If you do not want a bridge, you can have a removable
partial denture. The dentist wiIl explain how successful
a bridge will be. If the supporting teeth are not strong
enough, a denture might be better, If you have just had
some teeth taken out, a denture might be made first,
with a bridge fitted hater when the gum has healed.
Crowns | Fixed
Bridges | White
fillings | Veneers | Inlays |
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