Bridges
Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It fills the space left by missing teeth and can help restore your smile, chewing function and support a balanced bite.
At Medina Dental Clinic, we provide dental bridges for patients from Calista, Kwinana and surrounding areas. Our dentists will assess your teeth, gums and the space to determine whether a bridge is a suitable option for you.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A traditional dental bridge uses the teeth on either side of a gap to support one or more replacement teeth. The supporting teeth are carefully prepared and covered with crowns, with the replacement tooth or teeth positioned between them.
Once fitted, the bridge is fixed in place and is designed to look and function as naturally as possible.
The type of bridge suitable for you will depend on the location of the missing tooth, the condition of the surrounding teeth and your individual oral health.
Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
Depending on its location, a missing tooth can affect more than the appearance of your smile.
Replacing a missing tooth may help to:
- Restore your ability to bite and chew
- Improve the appearance of your smile
- Maintain appropriate spacing between your teeth
- Support normal function of your bite
- Prevent unwanted movement of neighbouring teeth
Your dentist can explain whether replacing the missing tooth is recommended in your particular situation.
Dental Bridges or Dental Implants?
Dental bridges and dental implants can both be used to replace missing teeth, but they work differently.
A traditional bridge is supported by neighbouring teeth, while a dental implant is placed into the jawbone and supports a replacement tooth independently.
There are advantages and considerations with each treatment. Your dentist will assess your oral health, remaining teeth, bone and individual circumstances before discussing which options may be suitable for you.
Dental Bridges or Dentures?
For patients with several missing teeth, a denture may also be an option.
Unlike a conventional bridge, which is fixed in place, a removable denture can be taken out for cleaning. The most appropriate solution depends on how many teeth are missing, their location, the condition of the remaining teeth and your individual preferences.
We’ll discuss the available options so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
What Happens When Getting a Dental Bridge?
Your dentist will first examine your teeth and gums and may take dental X-rays or other imaging where appropriate.
If a conventional bridge is suitable, the supporting teeth are prepared so they can support the restoration. Impressions or digital scans are then used to design a bridge that fits your mouth and bite.
Once your bridge is ready, your dentist will check its fit, appearance and bite before securely fitting it in place.
We’ll also explain how to clean around and underneath your bridge to help maintain the health of the supporting teeth and gums.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Good oral hygiene is particularly important around a dental bridge.
Regular brushing, cleaning underneath the bridge and maintaining routine dental examinations can help protect the supporting teeth and surrounding gums.
Our dental team can demonstrate appropriate cleaning techniques and recommend products to help you care for your bridge at home.
Dental Bridges in Kwinana & Calista
If you’re missing a tooth or several teeth, there may be more than one way to restore your smile.
At Medina Dental Clinic, we’ll assess your individual situation and discuss suitable options, which may include a dental bridge, dental implants or dentures.
Contact Medina Dental Clinic to arrange a consultation and discuss your tooth replacement options.