Dental Bridges
A bridge is used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. The replacement tooth or teeth are supported by crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap. In some cases, the bridge is supported by implants instead of teeth.
In high load areas such as the molar regions towards the back of the mouth, we make your bridges out of porcelain veneered to precious metal – often referred to as a ‘VMK’ or ‘PFM bridge’.
In the front of the mouth, where the loads are less and we want optimal aesthetics, we may prefer to make the entire bridge out of ceramic. As new ceramic materials are developed, we are improving our ability to provide all-ceramic bridges in the areas of the mouth that are subjected to higher loads,
By replacing a missing tooth or teeth, a bridge can :
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to chew properly
- Restore natural speech
- Prevent drifting and tipping of teeth adjacent to the space, and prevent over-eruption of the teeth in the opposing dental arch
- Provide support for the lips and cheeks, thereby enhancing your appearance
This model shows a three-unit bridge about to be fitted over the two abutment teeth. The bridge is cemented permanently to the supporting teeth.
This is a bridge made from Zirconia, which is a form of crystal that looks highly realistic and even reflects light in the same way as natural teeth.
Providing a bridge usually requires two appointments.
At the first appointment, the supporting teeth are prepared for their crowns. We then taken an impression, which is sent to the dental laboratory, where the bridge will be made by the dental technician. That process usually takes approximately two weeks. To protect the prepared teeth for the time the bridge is being made, we cover them with temporary crowns or a temporary bridge.
At the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is cemented or bonded into place.
Need more information?
For more information about our dental practice in general, or if you have a specific question about your dental care needs, please call us on (02) 8883 4560, email our dental practice at [email protected] or send us a message below and we will do our best to help you.
How can our dental practice help you with your dental care needs?
Whether your dental care needs are a regular dental check-up or you require more comprehensive dental care, the team at our dental practice will do our best to provide you with the best possible advice and care.
Want more information about our dental practice?
For more information about our dental practice in general, or if you have a specific question about your dental care needs, please call us on (02) 8883 4560, email our dental practice at [email protected] or send us a message below and we will do our best to help you.