What are bridges?

Bridges replace missing teeth by permanently attaching to a neighbouring tooth. They are a lower investment than implants and do not require surgery. The main disadvantages of bridges are that they require destructive treatment to be undertaken on an otherwise healthy neighbouring tooth. This often limits the lifespan of the neighbouring tooth and as a result, bridges generally do not last as long as implants. Sometimes it can also be challenging to avoid the appearance that the tooth is hovering above the gum line rather than emerging from it.

Every smile is different, and many require different approaches to replacing teeth. We want to take the time to understand what you want to change and provide bespoke solutions. With modern dental care, patients should be able to smile and chew with confidence!

Request an appointment

Appointments

  1. Book a new patient preventative dental health check.
  2. Let us listen to what you would like to change.
  3. After 2 weeks we will provide a full report with several options and costs.
  4. Let us replace your lost teeth!

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a bridge?

    A bridge is a replacement tooth that stays in place through support from an adjacent tooth.

  • How long does it take for a bridge to be placed?

    A bridge can normally be made in around 2 weeks.

  • What types of bridges are there?

    Broadly there are two types of bridge. A conventional bridge needs a crown on the supporting tooth. An adhesive bridge does not need a crown but relies on the strength of adhesion.

  • How long do bridges last?

    This depends on the type of bridge. Research suggests a conventional bridge will have a 95% chance of surviving 5 years. An adhesive bridge has an 81% chance of surviving 5 years. Adhesive bridges do not last as long because they tend to fall off.

  • Do bridges damage other teeth?

    An adhesive bridge generally does not damage the supporting tooth, however a conventional bridge requires the supporting tooth to be crowned. This requires removal of 69% of its structure and is associated with a 14% chance of damage to the nerve of a tooth. This is likely to mean root canal treatment.

  • Is there a better solution to replacing teeth with a bridge?

    Bridges cause a lot of destruction to the supporting tooth. In contemporary dentistry, we tend to place more implants than bridges. The reasons for this are firstly that implants do not damage surrounding teeth and secondly they predictably last significantly longer.

Visit Us

Welcoming new patients

We would love to invite you to our practice for aesthetic treatments, advanced treatments, or the highest quality routine family dentistry.

27 Western Terrace,
Falmouth, TR11 4QL

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