TREATMENTS
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of artificial teeth that are anchored by crowns on the adjacent healthy teeth (or implants) on either side of the gap. A dental bridge not only fills the space left by missing teeth but also helps prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, which can cause misalignment and bite problems.
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What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance. Bridges work by “bridging” the gap created by missing teeth, using adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants as anchors.
Bridges are custom-made to match the look of your natural teeth, seamlessly blending into your smile. They improve the aesthetics of your teeth and help maintain proper bite alignment, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and support facial structure.
Dental bridges offer a practical, durable solution for missing teeth. They help restore comfort, confidence, and the ability to chew and speak naturally.
The Procedure
What is the process?
The process of getting a dental bridge typically requires two or more visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the gap) for the dental crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This involves removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the crowns.
Next, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create the bridge and the dental crowns. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.
On your second visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and the permanent bridge will be cemented into place. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
Dental Bridges in Edinburgh
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional Bridges: Traditional bridges are the most common type of dental bridge. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns that are placed on the adjacent teeth. (The adjacent teeth have to be structurally sound).
- Cantilever Bridges: Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but they are used when there is only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge. This tooth needs to be structurally sound and stable. The pontic is limited in size and function.
- Maryland Bridges: Maryland bridges are a more conservative option that does not require the adjacent teeth to be capped. Instead, the artificial teeth are attached to a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: When multiple teeth are missing in a row, dental implants can be used to support a bridge. This type provides excellent stability and prevents bone loss.
- Removable Dental Bridges: These bridges can be taken out for cleaning. They are held in place by clasps or attachments to adjacent teeth.
The Treatment Journey
Every patient journey is unique, but this is what you can expect when you start treatment with the Inverleith Dentalcare.
1. Consultation, Preparation, & Custom Design
During your initial consultation, we assess your dental needs and discuss the best treatment plan for you. After anaesthetising the area for comfort, we take a small mould to create a temporary prosthesis. We carefully prepare your tooth, removing minimal enamel, and take a 3D digital scan for a precise design without messy moulds.
Using the detailed design map, our expert ceramist custom-makes your bridge, ensuring it matches your natural teeth. In 2-3 weeks, the prosthesis is checked for accuracy before being delivered to your dentist.
3. Fitting & Final Adjustments
At your fitting, we ensure the bridge fits comfortably and matches your natural teeth in colour and shape. It is securely bonded in place, and your bite is adjusted for a perfect, lasting result.
Key Advantages
- Enhanced Appearance
- Restored Functionality
- Preventing Teeth Shifting
- Easy Maintenance
- Improved Confidence
- Improved Oral Health
- Long-Lasting Solution
- Maintenance of Bite Alignment
What Our Patients Are Saying
Our Dentists
GDC: 258192
John is one of the restorative and cosmetic Dentists at the practice. John is experienced with complex restorative cases, TMJ issues, and bruxism.
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Further training in the fields of Aesthetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Invisalign® and Facial Aesthetics allows Chris to provide a holistic approach to your care.
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Originally from Edinburgh, Melissa returned to her hometown after qualifying from the University of Dundee in 2016.
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Your Questions Answered
FAQs
Dental bridge treatment is generally not painful. During the procedure, your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring you’re comfortable and don’t feel any discomfort. You may experience mild soreness or sensitivity afterward as your mouth adjusts to the new bridge, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and should subside within a few days. Your dentist will provide guidance on managing any temporary discomfort to help you enjoy a smooth, pain-free recovery.
A dental bridge may be recommended if you have one or more missing teeth. Replacing missing teeth with a bridge is important not only for cosmetic reasons but also for maintaining function, alignment, and overall dental health. Gaps left by missing teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift, leading to issues with bite alignment, chewing, and even jaw pain.
A bridge helps to keep your remaining teeth in place, prevent the “unraveling” or shifting of your smile, and maintain proper space between teeth. With the latest techniques, we aim to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, and in some cases, a bridge can be supported by dental implants rather than relying on drilling into adjacent healthy teeth.
The dental bridge process typically involves a few key steps to ensure a secure, natural-looking fit. First, your dentist will assess your mouth and take digital impressions or scans to custom-create a bridge that matches your bite and smile. If neighboring teeth are needed for support, they’ll be prepared carefully, but we aim to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible—so we won’t drill into healthy teeth unnecessarily. In cases where implants are used, no alterations to surrounding teeth are needed.
Once your bridge is ready, it will be fitted and adjusted to ensure it feels comfortable and looks seamless. After placement, you may need a brief adjustment period, but soon your bridge will function just like your natural teeth, restoring your smile and bite alignment.
Yes, there are three dental bridges such as traditional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bonded bridges.
After getting a dental bridge, it’s best to avoid certain foods to protect your bridge and allow it to settle comfortably:
- Sticky Foods: Avoid caramels, chewing gum, and other sticky treats, as they can pull on the bridge or dislodge it.
- Hard Foods: Crunchy items like nuts, hard candies, and ice can put pressure on your bridge and risk cracking or damaging it.
- Chewy Foods: Tough meats and chewy snacks can strain the bridge, making it harder to maintain its fit and stability.
- Sugary Foods: Sweets and sugary drinks can contribute to decay around the bridge supports, so try to limit these and practice good hygiene.
Following these guidelines can help extend the life of your bridge and keep it in excellent condition.
Dental bridges are designed to be long-lasting, typically lasting between 5 to 15 years, depending on factors such as the materials used, your oral care routine, and whether you experience any damage or wear. With proper care—including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups—your bridge can last longer. Avoiding habits like grinding your teeth or chewing on hard objects can also help maintain the durability of your dental bridge. Your dentist will guide you on how to care for your bridge to ensure it stays functional and comfortable for years to come.
Taking care of your dental bridge is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain your oral health. Here are some key tips for proper care:
- Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth and bridge at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Be gentle around the bridge to avoid damaging it.
- Floss Daily: Flossing is crucial to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and around the bridge. Use special floss designed for bridges, or an interdental brush (ID brush) to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Avoid foods that can damage your bridge, such as hard candies, ice, or sticky sweets, as they can pull on or dislodge your bridge.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup and keep your mouth clean.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule regular checkups to ensure the bridge is in good condition and your gums remain healthy.
No, dental bridges are designed to restore the function of your missing teeth, allowing you to eat comfortably. After your dental bridge is placed, you should be able to eat most foods without difficulty. However, during the initial adjustment period, you may feel some sensitivity or discomfort. It’s advisable to start with softer foods and gradually return to your normal diet as your bridge settles into place.
Once fully adjusted, you can enjoy a wide range of foods. Just be cautious with very hard or sticky foods, as they can potentially damage or dislodge your bridge. Regular care and attention to what you eat will help ensure your bridge stays intact and continues to function properly.
Why Choose Inverleith Dentalcare?
Our team have performed countless dental treatments and have decades of combined experience. You’re in safe hands with us.
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Highly Experienced Dentists
Our clinical team undergoes continuous training to stay at the forefront of modern dentistry, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
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With countless successful treatments and happy patients, our results speak for themselves, ensuring you’re in trusted hands.
