What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge can replace missing teeth with false teeth. The bridge is attached to your teeth on either side of the gap. Unlike dentures, a dental bridge is not removable. It's fixed in place by your dental professional during the dental bridge procedure.

Bridges are usually made of porcelain and metals such as zirconia and gold alloy. Bridges made with resin and metal, and implant-supported bridges are also available.

When might I need a dental bridge?

You might need a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth. To have a dental bridge you need to have healthy teeth on either side of the gap in your teeth.

What happens during a dental bridge procedure?

The usual procedure involves placing a crown on the teeth on each side of the gap. These crowns are joined together by another crown that acts as a false tooth.

You will need more than one appointment to get a dental bridge.

Your dental professional will examine your mouth and treat any tooth decay or gum disease. You may need to have an x-ray.

Your teeth and mouth will then be measured and checked. This is to ensure the teeth that will support your dental bridge are strong enough.

Two healthy teeth will usually be filed down on either side of the gap to prepare the dental bridge. They will take a mould to make the bridge. You might be given a temporary bridge while waiting for your permanent bridge to be made.

When your permanent bridge is ready, you will have a second appointment to put it in place. Dental cement is used to fix the bridge to the prepared teeth.

Your dental professional might anchor the bridge with a dental implant. Implants are surgically attached to your jawbone. They will check if dental implants are suitable for you.

Resin and metal bridges can be used to replace your front teeth. A false tooth is attached to a small metal frame. The frame is fixed to the back of your teeth on either side of your gap.

How should I care for a dental bridge?

You'll need to brush your bridge with fluoride toothpaste the same as you do for natural teeth. As the crowns that make a bridge are joined together, floss cannot be passed between the teeth. Ask your dental professional how best to clean beneath your dental bridge. You may need to use superfloss, floss threaders or interdental brushes.

Regular visits to your dental professional are also important.

What are the benefits and risks of a dental bridge procedure?

The main benefit of a dental bridge is to maintain the function of your teeth.

If you feel self-conscious about missing teeth, a dental bridge can help give you more confidence when you smile.

Another advantage is that once the gap is filled, this will stop the other teeth leaning into the gap. If your teeth stay straight this helps with the bite.

Bridges can last for many years if they are cared for properly. However, they can fail, usually due to decay of the natural teeth next to them, or failure of the cement.

Talk to your dentist about the costs of a dental bridge procedure.

What are the alternatives to dental bridges?

You could also ask your dentist about:

• partial dentures — removable false teeth
• a dental implant
• crowns — a cover to protect the teeth you have left

Resources and support

Find out more about how to care for your teeth at teeth.org.au.

Talk to your dental professional about the benefits and risks of getting a dental bridge.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.