Dental Bridges in Esher and Wandsworth

A dental bridge is a treatment that essentially bridges a gap in your mouth. It involves replacing a gap between your teeth from a missing tooth with a false tooth which is bonded to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. 

There are two main types of bridge, your dentist will determine which is the right option based on your situation. The most common type of bridge consists of two dental crowns on the synthetic tooth. It can be made of porcelain or metal, and is permanently bonded to your natural teeth. The false tooth sits in the middle (the gap) while each side is bonded to your natural teeth.

If you have recently lost a tooth due to natural causes, injury or even due to medical conditions, a dental bridge is a solution especially when the gap in between your teeth is in turn affecting your other teeth.

The bridge is a replacement tooth that will essentially fill the space where something is missing, creating a natural appearance in your mouth while helping restore the function of the missing tooth.

Usually, you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure because dentists will often use local anesthetic to numb the area. You will however, need to keep your mouth open for a long period of time which can get a bit uncomfortable. If your jaw gets a bit sore after the procedure over-the-counter pain relievers should relieve any pain caused by the treatment. A good alternative would also be to place an ice-pack on the outside of your jaw to relieve any soreness.

The main advantage of bridges is that they are considered to be one of the most effective methods of replacing missing teeth. Another advantage is that they do not require any bone grafting. Bridges also offer a quick, long lasting procedure to replacing any missing teeth. 

Dental bridges have a number of benefits. One of them being that dental bridges are usually small and lightweight. They provide excellent chewing comfort and they correct and re-distribute the normal bite force that is compromised by your missing teeth.

Another key advantage of dental bridges is that getting used to your new dental bridge is usually quite easy and comfortable. 

Dental bridges restore the ability to speak normally while restoring a very natural look to the mouth and smile.

A hole in your teeth can prompt your teeth to begin shifting positions therefore, a dental bridge prevents any adjacent teeth from moving. Preventing any problems with your bite and further complications.

One disadvantage of getting a dental bridge is that once the bridge is fitted, the adjacent teeth that the bridge is held in place by, may become damaged.

There is a risk that the crown may disrupt the structure of the teeth. 

The success of a dental bridge is heavily dependent on the health of the adjacent teeth and gums for support. Any damage to them can result in damage to the dental bridge. 

Another disadvantage of getting a dental bridge is that the supporting teeth on either side of the bridge may not even be strong enough to support the bridge. This could, in turn, result in the collapse of the bridge.

Dental bridges are quite durable. They can last from 5 to 15 years and in many cases, even longer. With regular checkups and good oral hygiene, it is common for the lifespan of a fixed bridge to be over 10 years. 

With good oral hygiene paired with regular dental visits it is very possible for a dental bridge to last over a decade. However, the average time for a dental bridge to last is between five to seven years, but it is very common for bridges to last longer. 

Maintenance for all dental bridges is very important. Because even though they may not be able to decay like natural teeth, the teeth that your bridge is attached to, could still get damaged, decay or get an infection or develop gum disease. As the bridge is attached to and fully dependent on the supporting teeth, if those adjacent teeth were to get damaged or lost, then so would the bridge. 

To care for your bridge, you should brush and floss like you would your normal teeth after each meal. It is important that you maintain regular dental visits and cleaning to prevent any problems. It is vital to clean all your teeth thoroughly, daily, not just the crown.

Dental bridges rely on the teeth next to any tooth space, to carry a replacement tooth. When you are missing one or more teeth, there are several options that are available to you. These include: 

• Implant bone grafts
• Partial denture
• Braces or space maintainer
• Bridgework

Contact us today to find out more about dental bridges from our practices in Wandsworth and Esher.

Not everyone is a good candidate for a bridge. There are several factors which contribute to a person being a good candidate for a bridge, these include: 

• Missing one or more permanent teeth
• Having good oral health
• Being in overall good health (no severe infections of health issues)
• Having teeth that are strong enough and in good shape and a strong bone structure that are able to support the bridge
• Performing good oral hygiene in order to maintain the condition of the bridge

To find out more about dental bridges, contact us to book an appointment.

The initial step in the procedure of a dental bridge is to assess the need for restorative dental treatment to replace the missing teeth and to decide whether a dental bridge is the best option.

Part of the preparation process involves re-contouring these teeth by removing a portion of the enamel in order to allow room for the crown to be placed over them. Impressions of the teeth will then be made after to serve as a model for which the crown will be made from. Your dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to wear in the meantime while the bridge is being made to protect the exposed teeth and gums. 

During your second visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and the new porcelain or metal bridge will be fitted and adjusted if necessary.

Book an appointment today to replace your missing teeth and restore your smile with dental bridges.