Dental Bridges

What are dental bridges?

A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of a gap. These two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and a false tooth is attached in between the anchoring crowns. The false tooth is called a pontic and can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dr Malakonakis can help you decide which to use, based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations and cost. Porcelain or ceramic bridges can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth and Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth.

Why is a bridge needed?

A bridge may be recommended if you're missing one or more teeth. Gaps left by missing teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

What are dental bridges used for?

  • Restore your smile
  • Restore the ability to properly chew and speak
  • Maintain the shape of your face
  • Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
  • Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position

What is the process for getting a dental bridge?

During the first appointment for getting a dental bridge, the teeth on either side of the missing space will be prepared. Preparation varies depending on the type bridge but generally involves leaving a portion of enamel around the teeth either side of the space to allow room for the crowns to be placed over them. Impressions of the teeth are taken, which serve as a model from which the bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made by our dental laboratory. Dr Malakonakis will make a provisional plastic bridge or crowns to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the final bridge is being made.

It generally takes 2 weeks for the laboratory to fabricate the porcelain bridge. Once the bridge has been made, at the second appointment, we will confirm the fit and aesthetics prior to permanent cementation.

Gymea Dental uses only local,high-end and well established laboratories in the heart of Sydney where both the technician and Dr Malakonakis work together in close collaboration to ensure they achieve your goals and an excellent finished product.

WE DO NOT SOURCE ANY LABORATORY WORK OR PRODUCTS OVERSEAS TO CHEAP AND UNRESTRICTED LABORATORIES.

How long do bridges last?

Typically, bridges can last for about 10-15 years, though many patients will have their bridge for a lifetime. Bridges need to be replaced when they have chipped or broken, though most bridges may fail due to other issues such as decay of the tooth under the crown or by gum disease. Regular oral hygiene visits and a good diet and home care is important in maintaining bridges.

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