What is the procedure for getting a dental bridge?

What is the procedure for getting a dental bridge?

If you’re set to be among the 7% of UK adults with a dental bridge, you might be curious about the procedure.

Having a tooth (or teeth) missing is actually quite common. Whether due to injury, decay or gum disease, gaps can affect more than just the appearance of your mouth. They can impact how you eat and speak, and even how your jaw functions over time.

One solution to missing teeth is a dental bridge, a reliable way of replacing one or more missing teeth. It helps restore function and confidence. If you’re considering your options, it’s helpful to know what the procedure involves and what to expect.

What is a dental bridge and what are they for?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration. It replaces one or more missing teeth. Literally, it “bridges” the gap. The bridge is held in place by the existing natural teeth each side or by dental implants.

Bridges can be made from different materials. Porcelain, ceramic and metal options exist. Whichever material is used, they are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, and once in place, they make eating and speaking much easier.

Replacing missing teeth isn’t just about restoring your smile and looking better. Gaps can cause shifting in the surrounding teeth. They can also affect your bite and lead to jaw problems over time. With a bridge, everything is kept in place and the overall structure of your mouth is maintained.

READ MORE: Why missing teeth matter, and what you can do about them

Procedure for dental bridges

There are several stages involved in dental bridges:

1.      Initial consultation

The first step is seeing a dentist for a consultation. You’ll discuss the missing tooth or teeth, and whether a dental bridge is appropriate.

Your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to check the health of your teeth, gums and jawbone. They’ll look at the teeth either side of the gap, which need to be strong enough to support a bridge.

You can ask questions at this stage too about the treatment, what is involved and how much you could be expected to pay. The initial consultation is just that; it’s finding out if the procedure is right for you, including your budget.

2.      Tooth preparation

Once you’ve decided to go ahead with a dental bridge, you’ll have an appointment to prepare the supporting teeth. These are called the abutment teeth. The dentist will gently shape these. A small amount of enamel is removed to create space for the crowns that hold the bridge in place.

Don’t worry, you’ll be given a local anaesthetic for this part so it won’t be painful. The aim here is to make sure the bridge fits well and feels comfortable in your mouth.

3.      Impressions

After the abutment teeth are prepared, the dentist will take impressions of your mouth. This will help them to create a bridge that fits your bite perfectly.

There are two ways of making impressions: a soft mould or a digital scanner. The exact shape of your teeth and gums is captured. The impressions are sent to a dental lab where they are used to make a custom bridge.

This step is all about making sure the bridge looks natural and feels comfortable when you eat or talk.

4.      Temporary bridge

While the permanent bridge is being made, the dentist will fit a temporary one. This protects the prepared teeth and keeps your mouth looking normal while you wait. It also helps with eating and speaking.

Temporary bridges are usually made from acrylic. They’re not as strong as the final one. As such, you may be advised not to eat hard or sticky foods until your permanent bridge is in place.

5.      Fitting and adjustments

Once the custom bridge has been made, you’ll make an appointment to get it fitted. The dentist will install the bridge and check how it looks and feels in your mouth. They will ensure it lines up well with your bite and sits comfortably.

If anything feels off, small adjustments can be made there and then. Sometimes, a short follow-up visit is needed to fine-tune how it fits.

Once everything feels right, the bridge is fixed into place with strong dental cement. And you’ll then be able to eat, speak and smile with a natural-looking and functioning set of teeth.

6.      Aftercare

Your bridge will need important care to make it last as long as possible. You need to brush twice a day and clean between your teeth, just like before the bridge. Special floss or brushes can help you clean under the bridge where food can get stuck.

Try to avoid very hard or sticky foods, especially at first. These can damage or loosen the bridge.

Regular dental checkups are also important. Your dentist will check the bridge and make sure your gums stay healthy.

With good care, a dental bridge can last many years, often more than 10.

Dental bridges at Ringway Dental

If you’re missing a tooth – or several – Ringway Dental can help you smile again with confidence. Our dentists offer high-quality dental bridges that look natural and feel comfortable.

The experienced team will guide you through every step. From your first consultation to fitting your new bridge. We take the time to understand your needs and answer all of your questions, so you feel completely at ease.

We use modern techniques and high-grade materials for strong, long-lasting results, and we’ll always be there for your aftercare too.

Ready to see what we can offer? Book a consultation at Ringway Dental today.

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