Missing teeth affect more than just your smile.
They can make chewing and speaking difficult and may even cause problems with your bite. A dental bridge is a reliable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth between your natural teeth.
At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey, custom-made dental bridges are designed to look natural, feel secure, and restore full function to your bite.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that literally “bridges the gap” left by missing teeth. It is supported either by crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap or, in some cases, by discreet metal wings bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth.
Think of it as a strong, natural-looking replacement that connects seamlessly with your existing smile.
Procedure Steps
- Initial Assessment – examination and X-rays of surrounding teeth and gums
- Tooth Preparation – reshaping supporting teeth if crowns are required
- Impressions or Digital Scans – to create a precise, custom-made bridge
- Temporary Bridge – protects the prepared teeth while the final bridge is made
- Final Fitting – the custom bridge is securely cemented in place
Duration
- Usually completed in 2–3 visits
- First visit: preparation and impressions (60–90 minutes)
- Second visit: final bridge fitting (30–45 minutes)
- Occasionally, a short third visit for adjustments
Cost Factors
The cost of a dental bridge varies depending on:
- Number of teeth being replaced
- Materials used (porcelain, zirconia, porcelain-fused-metal)
- Type of bridge (traditional, cantilever, Maryland, implant-supported)
- Complexity of bite and alignment
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional Bridge – crowns on either side of the gap hold the replacement tooth
- Cantilever Bridge – attached to only one supporting tooth
- Maryland Bonded Bridge – metal or ceramic wings bonded to adjacent teeth with minimal preparation
- Implant-Supported Bridge – anchored to dental implants for maximum strength and stability
Ideal Patients
- Missing one or more teeth in a row
- Wanting a fixed, non-removable solution
- Having healthy supporting teeth next to the gap
- Looking to restore chewing comfort and confidence in their smile
Patient Reviews
- “I can chew properly again, and the bridge looks just like my natural teeth.”
- “The treatment was smooth, and people can’t even tell I lost a tooth.”
- “It feels strong and stable—I don’t even notice it anymore.”
Possible Side Effects
- Mild sensitivity after supporting teeth are prepared
- Temporary tenderness for a few days
- Rare cases of loosening over time, requiring rebonding or replacement
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restore a natural smile and improve facial balance
- Prevent nearby teeth from drifting into the empty space
- Improve chewing and speaking ability
- Provide a fixed, stable option with no slipping like dentures
- Long-lasting with good oral hygiene and dental care
