Dental Crowns & Bridges

2. What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to seamlessly bridge the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It relies on sturdy anchor points on either side of the space for maximum stability.
Common Types of Bridges

• Traditional Bridge: Crowns are placed on the healthy teeth next to the gap, holding a fake tooth (pontic) securely between them.
• Cantilever Bridge: Used when there is an anchoring tooth available on only one side of the missing gap.
• Maryland Bridge: A conservative option where the new tooth is held in place by a discreet framework bonded to the back of the neighboring teeth.

3. The Treatment Journey: Step-by-Step

At Hallam Dental Clinic, all of our general dental practitioners are fully qualified to design and place premium crowns and bridges. The process is smooth and typically completed over two comfortable visits.

• Preparation Phase (Before the Procedure)
• Essential Clean: A professional dental clean is mandatory at least 4 weeks prior to any crown or bridge work on your front teeth. Healthy gums ensure a perfect, flush fit at the gumline.
• Optional Whitening: If you wish to brighten your smile, whitening must be completed before making the crown so we can match the porcelain to your new, brighter shade.

Visit 1: Shaping and Temporary Fit

• Gentle Shaping: Under a local anesthetic, the tooth is gently reshaped to make precise room for the new crown. If an old filling underneath looks worn, we will replace it first with your consent.
• Digital Impressions: Detailed molds of your teeth and bite are taken and sent to a local dental laboratory.
• Temporary Crown: You will be fitted with a temporary crown to protect your tooth while your permanent one is being custom-crafted.
  Visit 2: Final Placement
• The Perfect Fit: The temporary crown is removed, and your new permanent crown or bridge is placed.
• Bite Checking: Your dentist will carefully check your bite and alignment. Your comfort is our priority—how the tooth feels to you is the most important final step!
• Final Bonding: Once the fit is perfect, it is permanently cemented into place.

4. Longevity, Care, and Potential Risks
Modern dental materials like ceramic and zirconia are incredibly durable and built to last for many years. While a lifetime guarantee is impossible due to natural aging, excellent care ensures outstanding longevity.

How to Care for Your Restoration

• Daily Maintenance: Brush twice daily and use specialized floss (like
  Superfloss) to clean thoroughly underneath a dental bridge.
• Temporary Care: While wearing a temporary crown, chew on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid sticky or very hard foods.
• Protect Your Investment: Wear a custom night splint if you grind your teeth, and avoid using your teeth as tools (such as opening bottles or biting nails).
  What to Expect and Potential Risks
• Temporary Sensitivity: Mild sensitivity to hot or cold is completely normal and usually fades within a few days to a month.
• Decay and Gum Protection: While the crown cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath and around the margins still can. Poor cleaning can lead to gum infections or nerve irritation, which may rarely require a root canal.
• Accidental Detachment: Under heavy, unusual forces, a crown can sometimes come loose. If the crown remains undamaged, your dentist can easily re-cement it for you.