A fixed, made-to-measure way to fill the gap left by missing teeth, using the teeth on either side for support and bringing back your bite, your smile and your confidence.
Shade-matched to the teeth around it.
Chew, talk and smile without hesitation.
A range of choices to fit your budget.
A sturdy fix that often lasts 10 to 15 years.
Losing a tooth does more than alter how you look; it can change the way you eat, the way you speak and how you feel about your smile. At Netherton Dental Practice a bridge is a tried-and-tested way of closing the gap and restoring both how your teeth work and how they look.
Whether one tooth is missing or several, we will assess your mouth and recommend the bridge best suited to a natural, long-lasting result.
As the name suggests, a bridge spans the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A replacement tooth, known as a pontic, is supported by crowns fitted over the healthy teeth on either side, which act as the anchors, or abutments.
Unlike a denture, a bridge stays put; there is nothing to take out for cleaning or overnight. It looks, feels and works like your own teeth, and with good care it will serve you for many years.
For anyone wanting a secure, comfortable replacement without the longer timescale of an implant, a bridge is an excellent choice.
We provide several styles of bridge to match different situations and preferences.
The most widely used design. The replacement tooth is held by crowns cemented onto the natural teeth flanking the gap.
Where there are sound teeth on either side to lean on, a traditional bridge remains the benchmark for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Much like a traditional bridge but supported from one side alone, used where there is only a single neighbouring tooth to anchor it.
They are a sensible answer when the gap sits at the end of a row, or when you would rather leave one neighbouring tooth untouched.
A replacement tooth with slim metal or porcelain wings that bond to the backs of the neighbouring teeth. It is the most conservative option, asking very little of the supporting teeth.
A Maryland bridge is a fine choice for replacing a missing front tooth with as little disturbance as possible to the healthy teeth around it.
Assessment — we examine your teeth and take X-rays to plan the best approach.
Preparation — the anchoring teeth are gently shaped to take the crowns that will hold the bridge.
Impressions — accurate moulds are taken and sent to our dental laboratory to make the bridge.
Temporary bridge — a temporary piece protects the prepared teeth while your permanent bridge is being crafted.
Fitting — your finished bridge is checked for fit, bite and appearance, then cemented firmly in place.
Well looked after, a bridge will often last 10 to 15 years or more. How long yours lasts comes down to a few things:
We will show you exactly how to clean and care for your bridge so you can enjoy a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
All-ceramic and zirconia bridges give the most natural result, particularly on front teeth, with quicker turnaround and more flexible appointment times. Bridgework is quoted individually, with a written estimate provided on request, and also forms part of our more complex restorative treatment.
We will help you weigh up the options and settle on what best suits your needs, your appearance and your budget.
Talk to Netherton Dental Practice about bridges and we will help you find the right answer.
Netherton Dental Practice
The Plain, Long Stratton,
Norwich, NR15 2XG
