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Bridgework

Besides dentures, the most common solution to replace missing teeth is using by using a bridge or bridges.

Types of Bridges

There are different types of bridge options depending on the size of gap and health of surrounding teeth:

An ‘adhesive bridge’ (sometimes referred to as a ‘sticky bridge’, ‘minimally invasive bridge’ or ‘Maryland bridge’) is non destructive as it is bonded or glued to the adjacent tooth.

The principle of this type of bridge is that a false tooth is retained by an adhesive wing, cemented to a neighbouring tooth. Although this technique does require reduction of the retaining tooth, this is very minimal, usually in the order of a millimetre or less, and contained within the outer enamel layer of the tooth.

The success of these bridges relies on careful planning and design, the supporting tooth has to be sufficiently strong to bear the load and the bridge has to be designed to provide sufficient retention to aid the adhesive.

There are limitations to this type of bridge. They can only be used for short spans, usually single tooth replacements with a single retaining tooth. The type of gap and features of the bite have to be assessed fully to ensure success.

A conventional ‘fixed’ bridge replaces a tooth by placing a crown onto a neighbouring tooth, or teeth and joining to fill the space.

The support offered by a full crown supporting is much more than an adhesive bridge.

They allow for the replacement of much longer gaps, combining multiple false teeth and retaining teeth.

They allow for teeth to be shifted to fill gaps and provide greater control over the possible cosmetic outcomes.

The downside with this type of bridge is that it requires additional reduction of tooth tissue when compared with a minimally invasive bridge and this can give a greater risk of problems in the future.

Alternative bridges

There are specialist restorations which can be used in rare circumstances to restore. There are a range of these and their uses are limited to specific circumstances. If appropriate, you dentist will discuss these options further.

More options relating to missing teeth »

Testimonials

“Invisalign – Light. Crooked front teeth that had started to become more noticeable. This, in turn, started to affect my confidence.

The experience at Beaufort Park was excellent throughout. The staff, from the initial consultation, were friendly and professional. The welcoming reception staff through to the excellent dentist (Russell Gidney) have made this an (almost!) pleasurable experience!

I feel so much more confident and happy to smile again in public.

Quintin Bell


“I hated my smile in photos, I looked as though I only had about 4 teeth! 🙁

Treatments have all been explained, the team have been great & I have started to notice my teeth changing & looking good – despite not even being half way through my treatment (Invisalign Aligner 11/23). I am so happy with the progress.

Thank you! 🙂

Super, I would recommend to anyone considering treatment.

Rachel C


“After years of being unhappy with my crooked teeth and avoiding photographers if at all possible.

I decided to seek corrective treatment at the grand old age of 55 in order to be able to smile at my daughters up coming wedding. After a chat with the Beaufort Dental practice I decided on a course of CFast treatment. In a few short months I was thrilled with the result. Straight teeth which were so much easier to care for and which looked 100 per cent more attractive

The cost was manageable too and I paid at intervals during the treatment. I wish I’d done it years ago.

MD


“I did not like my teeth so didn’t smile.

Invisalign – absolutely brilliant! Very professional team, extremely happy with the results!”

Lisa G


“Even though my oral hygiene has always been excellent I have for many years hated my teeth which were discoloured + the crowns rather mismatched.

Dr Russell Gidney was the first dentist I had confidence in to correct my problems. He showed great empathy, kindness + professional skill. He made me feel completely at ease.

His dental nurses + admin staff are all lovely. The outcome is better than I expected, I now have a lovely smile!”

Pamela C


“I recently had cosmetic work on my teeth carried out by Russell at the surgery. he explained everything in detail and I am overjoyed with the results. The difference it has made is amazing and I thoroughly recommend them. The staff are very helpful too!”

Gaynor M

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