Crown & Bridges
Our bridges
Do you need to replace several missing teeth next to each other or a single tooth?
If so a dental bridge or crown will help to give you a natural-looking smile.
Used to bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth, there are three main types. A Conventional Bridge where a crown is placed on the teeth either side of a gap, and then joined by a false tooth. An Adhesive, or Maryland Bridge, which requires minimal preparation of neighbouring
teeth as the false tooth is bonded to existing teeth using small wings or a Cantilever Bridge where a crown is placed on only one of the remaining teeth so that support is only one side.
Treatment Summary
A bridge can make all the difference when you have several teeth missing next to each other. They work by holding a small set of replacement teeth in place and result in a far more natural-looking smile.
The benefits of bridges
- Help to restore your smile enabling you to chew and speak properly
- Protect the remaining teeth by evenly distributing the forces in your bite
- Ensure that the remaining teeth do not drift out of position
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Other reasons to have a crown:
- They provide a strong foundation to hold a bridge or denture firmly in place
- If you have had root canal a crown will protect the area affected
- The appearance of a discoloured filling can be greatly improved by a crown
Conventional Bridge
The teeth either side of the gap will need to be prepared by converting them to crowns which the false teeth will be fused onto. This is a long term solution often lasting for up to fifteen years and an excellent option for those who do not wish to undergo implant surgery. However this preparation will take time and a very high level of dental hygiene will be required after treatment.
Adhesive, or Maryland, Bridge
This requires minimal preparation to the neighbouring teeth with the pontic bonded to the abutments using small wings on the inside wall of the teeth. This tends to be a cheaper option as less time is required to make the bridge and additionally it is considered better for the long-term health
of the neighbouring teeth. On the downside they only last for five years and are primarily considered a front tooth replacement option.
Cantilever Bridge
One of the neighbouring teeth will need to be capped with the bridge bonded on only one side. This is a more cost-effective approach and allows for easier cleaning once treatment has finished. However, the surrounding teeth can be sensitive afterwards and may result in a lower chewing load
being achieved. This may make it unsuitable for some patients and is a good example of why we advise that initial consultation to determine which option is best for you.
To find out more about our bridge service simply book a free, no-obligation consultation by contacting the team today. If you would like to know about payment plans and finance options click here……
Book your consultation
Pre-Treatment Consultation
At Smiles, we feel it important to offer a no-obligation consultation to anyone who is considering treatment. This will enable us to fully explain the products we use and what is involved in the delivery of the treatment. It will also enable us to ask you a few health-based questions which may highlight possible contraindications to having such treatments. In this case, we will be able to advise you of alternative options. Your health and safety is of paramount importance to us and we always endeavour to ensure the safest and optimal outcome for you.
Frequently asked questions
How does a bridge work?
It works by anchoring a small set of false teeth to those either side of the gap. The false teeth are known as the ‘pontic’ and the existing teeth that are used as anchor points are known as abutments.
They can be made form gold, ceramic or a combination of the two.
AT Smiles we offer a range of treatments and bridge solutions and will advise you on the best option for you.
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