What Are Dental Bridges Used For?

08 November 2022

Treatment of edentulism (missing teeth) with a dental bridge is one of the most common and effective methods. A dental bridge allows for the restoration of both chewing function and smile aesthetics. It is a fixed prosthetic construction that is supported by healthy adjacent teeth and fills the space of a missing tooth. In this article, we will discuss what a dental bridge is, the types available, and how the placement process is carried out.

What Is a Dental Bridge and How Does It Work?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic solution and one of the methods used to treat edentulism (missing teeth). It replicates the structure of a natural tooth and fully restores both function and aesthetics.

How a Dental Bridge Works

A dental bridge works by replacing the missing tooth with an artificial one that is securely fixed to adjacent teeth or dental implants. This creates a stable construction that functionally and visually replaces a natural tooth.

A dental bridge consists of three main components:

Abutment teeth - the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth that support the bridge. These teeth are prepared (shaped) to allow secure fixation.
Crown (artificial tooth) - fills the space of the missing tooth, replicating its shape, size, and color while restoring chewing function.
Fixation - the bridge is permanently fixed to the abutment teeth using special dental cement. The patient cannot remove it independently; it remains permanently in place.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Dental Bridge The most common type. It is used when the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth are healthy. Materials typically include metal-ceramic or zirconia-ceramic.
Cantilever Dental Bridge This type requires only one adjacent healthy tooth. If there is a suitable tooth on either side of the missing area, a cantilever bridge may be an optimal solution.
Maryland Bridge (Adhesive Bridge) Widely used in aesthetic dentistry. The artificial tooth is attached to adjacent teeth using special “wings” or plates bonded to the inner surface. This method does not require grinding healthy neighboring teeth, allowing preservation of enamel and tooth vitality. It is an ideal option for restoring front teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge This bridge is supported directly by dental implants placed in the jawbone. The load is transferred to the bone, providing maximum stability.

When Is a Dental Bridge Recommended?

Dental bridge placement is a practical solution when quick tooth restoration is required. Dentists recommend this method in the following cases:

One or two missing teeth – if adjacent teeth are healthy, a bridge is an effective solution. For larger gaps, bridges may be less stable due to increased load on abutment teeth.
Prevention of facial structure changes – missing teeth can lead to loss of cheek support, facial aging, and wrinkles. A bridge helps preserve facial contours and smile aesthetics.
Limited time – bridge placement is completed relatively quickly, usually within a few visits.
When implants are not possible – due to insufficient bone volume or medical conditions (e.g., severe diabetes or blood disorders), a bridge may be the best non-surgical alternative.
High aesthetic demands – especially for front teeth, a dental bridge provides natural-looking results in a short time.

When Might a Dental Bridge Not Be Recommended?

A dental bridge may not be the best option if:

Adjacent teeth are weak or severely damaged
There is active gum disease
A large space exists due to multiple missing teeth

In such cases, dental implants may be considered as an alternative.

Dental Bridge Procedure: Step-by-Step

Before deciding on bridge treatment, it is important to understand the stages involved:

Consultation and diagnostics – evaluation of abutment teeth using X-rays
Preparation – shaping of abutment teeth and impression taking
Temporary bridge – placed while the permanent bridge is being fabricated
Fitting and fixation – precise adjustment and permanent cementation

Important: The average lifespan of a dental bridge is 10–15 years, and even longer with proper care. Maintaining hygiene under the bridge is critical. Daily use of special floss and an irrigator significantly extends durability. Regular dental check-ups are also essential.

Why Is Timely Replacement of a Missing Tooth Important?

Many patients believe that a single missing tooth is not a serious problem. In reality, untreated gaps can lead to:

Shifting of adjacent teeth
Gum recession
Chewing imbalance
Overloading of the jaw joint

To prevent these issues, timely tooth replacement is strongly recommended, especially when bridge placement is possible.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Bridges

Advantages:

Fast results - bridges can be fabricated and placed relatively quickly
No surgical intervention - attractive for patients avoiding surgery
Lower cost - often more affordable than implants

Disadvantages:

Grinding of abutment teeth - may weaken neighboring teeth structurally
Bone loss risk - bridges do not restore bone in the missing tooth area, which may lead to bone atrophy over time

Dental Bridge Cost: What Does It Depend On?

The cost of dental bridge treatment depends on:

Materials used
Number of teeth involved
Type of bridge

Therefore, pricing can only be determined after an individual consultation.

Dental Bridge or Implant?

Both dental bridges and implants are effective methods for replacing missing teeth. The choice depends on individual circumstances:

Dental bridge – faster and more affordable, supported by adjacent teeth
Dental implant – a long-term, stable solution that does not affect neighboring teeth and transfers load directly to the bone

The final decision should be made together with a prosthodontist, considering health, time, and budget.

Summary

Tooth replacement is an important decision for your health and confidence. If fast rehabilitation is a priority, a dental bridge is an excellent option. Modern materials allow artificial teeth to be indistinguishable from natural ones.

Accurate diagnosis requires a visit to a professional dentist who will create a personalized treatment plan.

At Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava Clinic, our qualified dentists provide professional consultations, answer all your questions in detail, and help you treat edentulism as quickly and effectively as possible using the most suitable method for you.

You can view our prices and doctors’ work online.

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