Bridges are usually made of porcelain bonded to precious metal. Sometimes other non-precious metals are used in the base for strength. There are also new bridges made entirely of a special type of strong porcelain.

We recommend waiting up to 6 months after an extraction before having a bridge fitted. This allows time for the gums to heal and settle, ensuring we are fitting the restoration over a solid foundation. For this reason it may be best to have a temporary denture before having the bridge made.

You can have a bridge only if you have enough strong teeth with good bone support. Your dental team will help you decide which is the best way of replacing missing teeth.

You need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot reach.

As with all procedures there are risks that need to be considered before having treatment. These include:

• Prolonged numbness

• Sometimes the tooth can be sensitive for a prolonged time.

• Shaping the teeth for the bridge may lead to irreversible irritation to the nerve of the tooth, requiring root canal treatment.

The alternative options may include:

• Accepting the missing tooth

• Dentures

• Implants