Bridges

There are many different types of bridges available, and they all serve the same purpose. They help to bridge the gap between two teeth. There are two main types of bridge that are used in dentistry, they are:

Maryland Bridge or Sticktech

This type of bridge consists of a solid crown that has two metal wings on either side.

The solid crown in the bridge is placed into the gap, and the wings are cemented on the back surface of the adjoining teeth.

The Maryland Bridge is a metal bridge that has a porcelain layers on the solid crown which enables it to be matched to your natural tooth colour.

Stick Tech bridge is basically the same as a Maryland bridge, but instead of having metal wings that can attach it to the back surface of the teeth, they have porcelain covered wings with give the bridge a more natural tooth appearance.

Some people prefer Maryland and stick tech bridges as they are the less invasive then other bridges, as the surrounding teeth require little or no preparationBut some people find that they are not as secure.

Fixed bridge:

This kind of bridge involves the crowning of the teeth on either side of the gap, and joined them together with a solid crown, which replaces the missing tooth.

The bridge is made form a variety of materials from porcelain, bonded precious metal, gold, ECT.

As the adjoining teeth to a fixed bridge are crowned, this kind of bridge can feel more secure, but as these teeth are crowned the procedure is more invasive.

How a Maryland bridge is fitted:

Once you have decided to have a Maryland bridge, a 20 minute appointment is required so an impression of the gap that is to be filled can then be taken; no preparation work is normally required. This impression it then sent to the lab, where the bridge will be produced. Once the bridge has been made, which normally takes two weeks the bridge is returned to the practice. A second appointment is then required, this is normally around 20 minutes long.

The Maryland Bridge is then fitted into place and the wings are cemented onto the back surface of the adjoining teeth.

How a fixed bridge is fitted:

If you decide to have a fixed bridge then normally a longer appointment is required first of all. At this appointment a local anaesthetic is uses to numb the area; the two adjoining teeth will be prepared for the crowns. This involves shaping the tooth to allow a crown to fit over the top of it, once they have been prepared then an impression of the prepared teeth and the gap can then be taken.

The prepared area of the teeth is then covered with a temporary bridge or filling material; this is to protect the core of the tooth. The impressions are then sent to the lab, where it will take two weeks for the bridge to be made. Once the bridge has been returned to the practice a second appointment is required this is normally 20 minutes long. At this appointment the temporary filling material or bridge is removed from the adjoining teeth and the new bridge is fitted and secured into place with dental cement.

If a tooth has been extracted and a bridge is required to fill the gap, when we would normally recommended waiting for 4-6 weeks, before any preparation or impressions are taken. This will allow the wound to heal.

Cleaning My Bridge:

You should clean your bridge everyday, just the same as you would your natural teeth, this helps to prevent bad breath and gum disease. You should also clean under the bridge every day. The dentist or hygienist will show you how to use special floss that will allow you to do this, as a normal tooth brush is unable to reach this area.