Everything About Dental Bridges: Types, Pros, Cons & Procedure

Have you been wondering how to replace a missing tooth or fill a gap in your smile? Dental bridges are one of the most common and effective solutions in bridge dentistry. They not only restore the look of your teeth but also improve chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. 

In this blog, we’ll explore everything about dental bridges, their types, pros and cons, what to expect during the procedure, and more.

A] What Are Dental Bridges and Why Are They Used?

Dental bridges are fixed dental restorations which replace one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap with artificial teeth. They restore the appearance of your smile, improve chewing and speaking, and help maintain proper alignment of surrounding teeth. Bridges are generally recommended for individuals who have lost teeth due to decay, injury, or other dental conditions. By filling the space, they prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, support overall oral health, and enhance confidence in your smile. Dental bridges offer a practical, effective solution for those looking to restore both function and aesthetics.

B] What Are Types of Dental Bridges?

1. Traditional Bridges: The most common type, traditional bridges are supported by crowns on the adjacent teeth. They are strong and ideal for replacing one or more missing teeth in the middle of the mouth.

2. Cantilever Bridges: Used when there’s only one natural tooth next to the gap, cantilever bridges provide a solution where support is limited on one side.

3. Maryland Bridges: Also called resin-bonded bridges, Maryland bridges are minimally invasive. A metal or porcelain framework is bonded to the back of neighbouring teeth, preserving their structure while filling small gaps.

4. Implant-Supported Bridges: Anchored directly to dental implants rather than natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are highly durable and long-lasting, making them suitable for multiple missing teeth.

The best type depends on the number and location of missing teeth, the health of adjacent teeth, oral health, and budget. A dentist can guide the most suitable option.

C] What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges?

Pros:

• Bridges are generally more cost-effective than dental implants, making them accessible for many patients. Many people also ask, ‘how much do dental bridges cost?’, and while prices vary, bridges are usually more affordable upfront than implants.
• The procedure is faster, with a shorter recovery time compared to implants.
• They restore chewing ability, speech, and overall oral function.
• Bridges improve smile aesthetics, filling gaps and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of alignment.

If you’re looking for reliable treatment from an experienced dentist in the Sunshine Coast, dental bridges can be an excellent choice.

Cons:

• Traditional bridges require reshaping healthy adjacent teeth to support the restoration.
• They have a limited lifespan, typically lasting 5–15 years, and may need replacement over time.
• There’s a risk of decay or gum disease developing around the bridge if oral hygiene is not maintained.
• Some patients may experience temporary discomfort, sensitivity, or pressure after placement.

Overall, dental bridges offer a practical solution for missing teeth, balancing function, appearance, and cost. However, careful consideration and proper dental care are essential for long-term success.

D] How Do Dental Bridges Compare to Implants?

• Implants as an Alternative: Dental implants are a permanent alternative to dental bridges for replacing missing teeth. Unlike bridges, implants involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a natural tooth root. A crown is then attached to the implant, providing a stable, long-lasting replacement.
  You can also explore our detailed guide, Dental Implants vs Bridges: Which is Right for You? to understand the differences more deeply.
• Cost, Durability & Procedure: When comparing cost, bridges are typically more affordable upfront, while implants involve a higher initial investment due to surgery and materials. However, implants offer greater durability, often lasting a lifetime, whereas bridges usually need replacement every 5–15 years. Bridges are less invasive and faster to place, making them suitable for patients who prefer a quicker solution or may not be candidates for surgery.
• Who Benefits More: Implants are ideal for individuals seeking a permanent, low-maintenance solution and for those with healthy jawbone structure. Bridges are better suited for patients looking for a cost-effective option or when adjacent teeth can support the restoration.
• Maintenance & Outlook: Maintenance differs between the two: bridges require careful cleaning around the supporting teeth to prevent decay or gum issues, while implants are cared for much like natural teeth. Overall, the choice between bridges and implants depends on oral health, budget, desired longevity, and personal preference.

E] What to Expect During the Tooth Bridge Procedure

1. Consultation and Assessment: The process begins with a dental consultation and oral assessment to determine the best type of bridge.

2. Preparing Adjacent Teeth: For traditional bridges, adjacent teeth are prepared by reshaping them to support crowns.

3. Impressions and Temporary Bridge: Your dentist will then take impressions to create a custom bridge, and a temporary bridge is placed to protect the area.

4. Final Fitting and Bonding: Once the permanent bridge is ready, it is fitted, adjusted, and bonded in place. Follow-up visits ensure proper alignment, comfort, and function.

5. Aftercare and Follow-Up: Patients are advised to maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups to prolong the life of the bridge.

Conclusion

Dental bridges provide an effective way to restore missing teeth, improving both function and appearance. They are a cost-effective and quicker alternative to implants, helping maintain proper bite alignment and smile aesthetics. Choosing the right bridge depends on your dental condition, oral health, and lifestyle needs. With proper care and regular dental visits, bridges can offer long-lasting benefits and help preserve overall oral health, giving patients confidence in both their smile and dental function.

Are you dealing with a missing tooth or ongoing dental concern? Book an appointment with Oris Dental today. Our experienced team is here to provide the right treatment options for your long-term oral health.

FAQs for Dental Bridges

1. Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?

Anyone missing one or more teeth with healthy adjacent teeth and good overall oral health may be a good candidate.

2. How long do dental bridges last?

With proper care, dental bridges typically last 5–15 years

3. Do dental bridges look natural?

Yes, modern dental bridges are designed to match the colour and shape of natural teeth.

4. How do I take care of a dental bridge?

Brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly to prevent decay or gum issues around the bridge.

5. Is getting a dental bridge painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during preparation, which can be managed with local anaesthesia.

6. Are dental bridges better than implants?

Bridges are faster and more affordable, while implants offer greater durability and preserve bone long-term.

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