Dental bridges in Cheltenham

What a dental bridge is

A bridge is a fixed replacement for a missing tooth. The false tooth, called a pontic, is joined to supports on either side so it cannot be taken out. Those supports can be crowns on your own neighbouring teeth, or dental implants. Filling a gap helps you chew evenly, stops nearby teeth drifting or tipping into the space, and restores your smile.

Types of bridges we make

• Traditional bridge. Crowns on the teeth either side of the gap hold the false tooth. It is a good choice when those teeth already need crowns.
• Bonded (Maryland) bridge. A thin wing bonded to the back of a neighbouring tooth holds a front false tooth, with little or no drilling. It suits some single front teeth.
• Implant-supported bridge. Two or more implants carry a bridge across a longer gap, without relying on your natural teeth. See dental implants.

Made with digital scanning and CEREC

Instead of a goopy impression, we scan your teeth with a Primescan digital scanner. For suitable ceramic bridges, the design is done on screen and milled from a solid ceramic block by our CEREC unit in the practice, which can reduce the number of visits and the time you spend in a temporary. Larger or more complex bridges are made with a dental laboratory, and we explain which applies to you. Read more about same-day crowns and bridges.

Bridge, implant or denture?

All three replace missing teeth, and each has trade-offs.

• A bridge is fixed and usually quicker than an implant, but a traditional bridge means shaping the neighbouring teeth for crowns.
• An implant replaces the root as well as the tooth and leaves neighbouring teeth untouched, but involves surgery and healing time.
• A partial denture is removable and usually the lowest cost, but it is less stable.

At your consultation we compare the options for your mouth and give you a written, itemised quote for each one that suits.

Getting a bridge, step by step

1. Assessment. We check the gap, the supporting teeth, your gums and bite, and take X-rays.
2. Preparation and scan. Supporting teeth are shaped under local anaesthetic where needed, then digitally scanned.
3. Design and making. Your bridge is designed on screen and milled on site, or made by a laboratory for larger cases.
4. Fitting. We check the fit, colour and bite, then cement the bridge in place.

Cost and health funds

The cost of a bridge depends on its type, the number of teeth it spans and the material, so you receive a written quote after your assessment. Many health-fund extras policies with major dental cover contribute to bridges. All major health funds are accepted and claimed on the spot, so you pay only the gap.

Caring for your bridge

Because a bridge is fixed, food can collect under the false tooth, so we show you how to clean underneath it with floss threaders or small brushes. The supporting teeth still need protecting from decay and gum disease, so regular check-ups and cleans matter. Shaping teeth for crowns is permanent, and bridges may need replacing over time. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.