Dental bridges are false teeth that are anchored into the bite. They literally "bridge" a gap in your mouth. The teeth to the left and right of the bridge units (pontic) serve to attach the bridge and are called abutment teeth or anchoring teeth. Crowns are applied to these neighbouring teeth so that they can hold the bridge tooth in place. In order to apply a dental bridge, the adjacent teeth must be intact and have a strong root.
When are dental bridges used?
Dental bridges are used for aesthetic and health-related dental corrections for patients with missing teeth. Missing teeth can be caused by the following:
- Cavities or inflammation
- Accidents, falls or external mechanical influence
- Genetic predisposition
Gaps due to missing teeth can lead to difficulties chewing and speaking and can also cause problems with maintaining the position of the other teeth. Dental bridges restore both form and function to your bite.
What material are dental bridges made of?
At bestsmile we exclusively use high-quality ceramics to produce bridges. Here you can find more information on the material used in our Veneers, bridges and crowns.
How long do bridges last?
The lifespan of a bridge depends heavily on the material used and the patient's oral hygiene. On average, ceramic bridges last 15 years or longer.
It's very important to brush your teeth regularly in order to ensure the longevity of your bridge(s). The place where the edge of the crown meets the gums and the neighbouring teeth can be especially sensitive and needs to be taken care of accordingly.