Dental bridges can be used to complete damaged smiles when one or more teeth are missing. Bridges can be used to restore a natural smile, helping to reduce the risk of further decay and help ensure there is no loss of ability for eating or speech.
Bridges, broadly speaking, consist of a middle false tooth, called a ‘pontic’, which is held between two caps that sit over the teeth on either side of the gap. However, different types of bridge function slightly differently, with a bridge to suit several different tooth loss problems for patients throughout the UK, including those in the town of Goole.
Traditional fixed bridge
As the name implies, this is the most common type of bridge and is made of a pontic, which is held between two porcelain crowns (caps). Porcelain is usually used, as it is strong and blends in with the other natural teeth. The pontic itself is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. The crowns are then fixed to healthy neighbouring teeth, or implants. This type of bridge cannot be removed once it is fixed into place.
Cantilever bridges
Cantilever bridges are used when there are strong teeth available on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The pontic is then held in place by one or more teeth on one side of the missing tooth gap. This type of bridge is usually used in areas where the teeth will come under less stress, such as the front teeth.
Maryland bridges, or resin-bonded bridges
With this type of bridge the pontic is made from plastic, and is fused together with bands of metal. These bands are then bonded to the neighbouring teeth using a type of resin, so that it is not visible once the procedure is complete. This type of bridge can be used when needed for the front teeth, or when the gap to be filled has strong, healthy teeth on each side.
