Dental Bridges Barnes | Castelnau Dentists
Serving patients throughout Barnes, Richmond, Hammersmith, Fulham, Putney and London SW13
Dental Bridges in Barnes
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. The result is a stable, natural-looking replacement that is permanently fixed in place and does not need to be removed.
At Castelnau Dentists, we use high-quality materials to create bridges that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Bridges are carefully colour-matched and shaped to suit your individual smile, and our team will take time to ensure the final result looks and feels just right.
Types of Dental Bridge
The most common type of bridge is a traditional bridge, which involves placing crowns on the two teeth either side of the gap, with the artificial tooth suspended between them. These supporting teeth, known as abutment teeth, are prepared to receive the crowns as part of the procedure.
In some situations, a cantilever bridge may be appropriate, where only one adjacent tooth is used as a support. Resin-bonded bridges (also known as Maryland bridges) use a metal or ceramic framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, meaning less tooth preparation is required. Your dentist will advise on the most suitable type of bridge for your specific situation at your consultation.
Dental bridges can also be supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth, which may be a better option in some cases. Bridges work well alongside dental crowns if the supporting teeth require restoration at the same time. To find out more, book a consultation with our team. See our fees page for current pricing.
What to Expect from Bridge Treatment
A dental bridge is typically fitted over two appointments. At the first appointment, the abutment teeth are prepared and shaped to receive the crowns, and an impression or digital scan is taken. A temporary bridge is usually fitted to protect the prepared teeth while your permanent bridge is being made.
At the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is tried in and checked for fit, appearance, and bite. Once everything is satisfactory, the bridge is cemented securely in place. The whole process usually takes a couple of weeks from start to finish.
With good care, a well-made bridge can be a long-lasting solution. Brushing the bridge normally is straightforward, but cleaning underneath the pontic is important to prevent plaque build-up and gum inflammation. We will show you how to use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean beneath the bridge effectively at your fitting appointment.
To find out whether a bridge is the right option for your missing tooth or teeth, or to discuss alternatives such as dental implants, book a consultation with our team in Barnes. See our fees page for pricing. Finance options are available. Results may vary. A full assessment is required before treatment can be recommended.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Looking after a dental bridge is similar to caring for natural teeth, with one important additional step: cleaning beneath the bridge. Because the pontic (artificial tooth) sits above the gum rather than being rooted in the bone, it is important to clean the area underneath it daily to prevent plaque and bacteria from accumulating.
Floss threaders or superfloss allow you to thread floss beneath the bridge and clean the contact areas effectively. Interdental brushes can also be used where the gaps allow. Your dentist or hygienist will demonstrate the best technique for your specific bridge at your fitting appointment.
How Long Does a Bridge Last?
With good care and regular dental check-ups, a dental bridge can be a durable and long-lasting restoration. The lifespan varies depending on factors including the materials used, the position of the bridge, oral hygiene habits, and general dental health. We recommend attending regular check-up and hygiene appointments so we can monitor the bridge and the supporting teeth and address any issues early.
If you already have a crown on one of the supporting teeth or are considering crowns, our dental crowns page has more information. For permanent implant-supported alternatives, see our dental implants page. See our fees page for pricing. Contact us or book an appointment online to discuss your options.
Is a dental bridge the right option for me?
A dental bridge is a good option for patients who are missing one or more teeth and have healthy teeth on either side of the gap that can serve as anchors. A full assessment is needed to determine whether a bridge is suitable for your specific situation, as factors such as the condition of the adjacent teeth, the position of the gap, and your overall dental health all play a role. Your dentist will discuss all available options with you, including dental implants, so you can make a fully informed decision.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some patients experience mild sensitivity or discomfort in the days following preparation of the abutment teeth, but this usually settles quickly. We will ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure and provide aftercare guidance at each stage of treatment.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Cleaning beneath a dental bridge is an important part of your oral hygiene routine. Because a normal toothbrush cannot reach under the bridge, you will need to use floss threaders, superfloss, or interdental brushes to clean underneath the pontic daily. Your dentist or hygienist will demonstrate the best technique for your bridge at your fitting appointment. Regular hygiene visits at our practice will help keep the bridge and surrounding area healthy.
What is the difference between a bridge and a dental implant?
A bridge is a fixed restoration that is anchored to the teeth on either side of a gap. It replaces the visible part of the missing tooth but does not replace the root. A dental implant involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone to act as an artificial root, which then supports a crown. Implants do not require alteration of the adjacent teeth and can help preserve jawbone. Each option has its advantages, and your dentist will discuss which is most suitable for your circumstances.
Will a bridge look natural?
Yes. We use high-quality dental materials that are carefully colour-matched to your surrounding teeth. The bridge is shaped and contoured to blend naturally with your smile. Most patients find that a well-made bridge is very difficult to distinguish from natural teeth. You will have the opportunity to discuss the desired appearance with your dentist during the planning stage of treatment.
Can a bridge be used to replace multiple missing teeth?
Yes. A bridge can be used to replace more than one adjacent missing tooth, depending on the clinical situation. Longer bridges require strong anchor teeth and good bone support. Your dentist will assess whether a multi-unit bridge is appropriate for your case or whether another solution such as dental implants or a partial denture would be more suitable. All options will be discussed with you fully at your consultation.
Book Your Dental Bridge Consultation in Barnes
If you have a missing tooth and would like to explore your replacement options, our team at Castelnau Dentists in Barnes is here to help. We'll take the time to understand your needs and recommend the most suitable solution for you.
Book a consultation online or give us a call. We look forward to helping you restore your smile.
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Replace missing teeth with natural-looking dental implants at Castelnau Dentists in Barnes, London. A permanent, stable solution that preserves your jawbone and restores your smile.