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Bridges

A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Dental bridges are permanent and fixed to adjacent teeth or implants, unlike dentures which are a removable treatment option.

What are the different types of bridges?

The different types of dental bridge are:

  • Traditional fixed-fixed bridge: this is the most popular type of dental bridge and involves connecting replacement teeth to anchoring crowns. These are then secured to the adjacent teeth.
  • Cantilever bridge: this is when a false (replacement) tooth is levered off a same size tooth, or larger tooth. As only one tooth needs to be prepared, less tooth tissue is lost during the treatment process.
  • Maryland dental bridge: Maryland bridges require a metal framework to support the replacement teeth. Whilst these are a weaker type of bridge, they require very little preparation compared to their counterparts.
  • Implant-supported: known for being the strongest type of bridge, an implant-supported bridge uses implants instead of adjacent teeth. Dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone, and the bridge is attached above the gum line. Implant-supported bridges are the only type of bridge which prevent jawbone loss.
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Why would I need a bridge?

Tooth loss can have several knock-on effects on your dental health and the way your mouth functions, impeding your ability to chew normally, speak and care for your teeth in the normal way. Failing to address the issue of missing teeth can lead to swelling, pain and a crooked smile, which can also impact your day-to-day happiness and confidence.

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Why should I choose a bridge?

There are a number of benefits to getting a dental bride including:

  • They restore your smile and improve the appearance of your teeth.
  • They give you a greater ability to chew and speak.
  • They protect your existing teeth from needing to perform chewing they are not normally equipped to carry out.
  • They can maintain facial and mouth structure.
  • They ensure your existing teeth do not drift out of position.
  • Ensure even distribution of biting and chewing across the mouth.
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Are bridges available on the NHS?

Bridges are sometimes available on the NHS, under Band 3. Crowns are also under this band. However, implant-supported bridges are not usually available, unless there are special circumstances, which your dentist can discuss with you. Should this be the case, your dentist will discuss this with you.

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How much do bridges cost?

The cost of a dental bridge in the U.K sits at between £282.80 and £3200. The price will depend on whether you choose to go through the NHS or with a private dentist, and the type of bridge you are fitted with, how big the span of the bridge is, and which material has been used.

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Are bridges painful?

You may feel some initial discomfort after the procedure, and we recommend avoiding very hot and very cold food and drink, so that this is not exacerbated. It’s normal for it to take time to get used to your bridge feeling comfortable in your mouth. If your bridge and bite are uncomfortable after a few days, please contact us.

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How long do bridges last?

The lifespan of your bridge will be very dependent on how well you take care of it. Typically, this is usually around 5-15 years.

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How do I take care of my bridge?

To make sure your bridge remains in tact in the long term, you should:

  • Practice good at-home care: make sure you brush with a soft bristled brush and floss around your bridge to remove plaque and tartar. If you have an implant-supported bridge, make sure you brush the tissue underneath it, as plaque that accumulates in this area can cause your implants to fail.
  • Maintain a healthy diet: avoid foods that are chewy (starchy foods such as bread, steak and chewy confectionery) as these could damage your bridge. Eating foods such as vegetables, dairy and fibre will help to fortify the health of your teeth and gums. Meanwhile, drinking the recommended 2 litres of water a day will help to ensure your mouth stays free of lingering food particles.
  • Attend routine dentist and hygienist appointments: attend the dentist and hygienist to make sure your bridge and existing teeth remain healthy, and your gum stay gum disease-free.
  • Avoid lifestyle habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: both of these habits have been proven to be detrimental to natural teeth and artificial teeth. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption will reduce the need for further treatment.
  • Clean your bridge: clean under the bridge using super floss and/or a Waterpik® which is designed for ease of use when cleaning around dental work and restorations. Unlike conventional dental floss, the Waterpik®’s pulsating action aids cleaning under the bridge, where food and bacteria become easily trapped.
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