What is Dental Bridging
Introduction
A dental bridge is a type of treatment used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by filling the gap where the teeth are missing with an artificial tooth, called a pontic, which is held in place by the natural teeth or crowns on either side of the gap.
When you lose a tooth, the nearby teeth may start to shift or move out of place. This can affect your bite, chewing, and appearance. A dental bridge helps fix this by “bridging” the empty space. The artificial tooth in the middle looks and functions like a real tooth. The teeth on either side of the gap are either healthy natural teeth or covered with crowns to support the bridge.
There are different types of dental bridges, such as:
- Traditional bridge – uses crowns on both sides to hold the false tooth.
- Cantilever bridge – supported on only one side.
- Maryland bridge – uses metal or porcelain wings for support.
- Implant-supported bridge – uses dental implants instead of natural teeth for support.
Dental bridges help:
- Improve your smile.
- Make it easier to chew and speak properly.
- Keep your face shape normal.
- Prevent other teeth from shifting out of position.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges come in different types depending on how the missing tooth is replaced and what supports it. Each type has its own purpose and is chosen based on your dental needs. Here’s an easy-to-understand explanation of the main types of dental bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type. It has a false tooth (called a pontic) that is held in place by crowns on the teeth next to the gap. These crowns are placed over your natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth.
Best for: People with healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth.
Good to know: Your nearby teeth need to be shaped so crowns can be placed on them.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever dental bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it is supported by only one tooth next to the gap.
Best for: Areas in the mouth that don’t take much pressure while chewing, like the front teeth.
Good to know: Not as strong as traditional bridges and not used often in back teeth.
Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland dental bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the teeth next to the missing tooth. It doesn’t require crowns or reshaping of nearby teeth.
Best for: Replacing front teeth where appearance matters most.
Good to know: Less damaging to nearby teeth but may not be as strong under pressure.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is held in place by dental implants instead of natural teeth. Implants are small metal posts placed in the jawbone, which act like roots for the false teeth.
Best for: People missing several teeth in a row.
Good to know: It’s the strongest and most stable option, but it takes longer to complete and can be more expensive.
What are the Key Differences Between Traditional, Cantilever, Maryland, and Implant-Supported Dental Bridges?
Support system:
- Traditional and cantilever bridges use natural teeth.
- Maryland bridges use a bonded framework.
- Implant-supported bridges use implants in the jawbone.
Number of supporting teeth:
- Traditional: Two teeth (both sides).
- Cantilever: One tooth (one side).
- Maryland: Two teeth, but no crowns.
- Traditional: Two teeth (both sides).
Strength and durability:
- Implant-supported > Traditional > Maryland > Cantilever.
- Implant-supported > Traditional > Maryland > Cantilever.
Tooth preparation:
- Traditional and cantilever require reshaping of teeth.
- Maryland requires no major shaping.
- Implant-supported doesn’t affect nearby teeth.
- Traditional and cantilever require reshaping of teeth.
What does a dental bridge cost?
Type of Dental Bridge | Estimated Cost (in INR) | Details |
Traditional Bridge | ₹15,000 – ₹40,000 per unit | Most common type. Uses crowns on nearby teeth to support the false tooth. |
Cantilever Bridge | ₹15,000 – ₹35,000 per unit | Supported by only one nearby tooth. Good for front teeth. |
Maryland Bridge | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 per unit | Uses a metal or ceramic frame bonded behind adjacent teeth. |
Implant-Supported Bridge | ₹30,000 – ₹75,000 per implant | Most durable option. Supported by dental implants placed in the jawbone. |
Tooth preparation:
- Prices may vary based on location, dental clinic, materials used (metal, porcelain, zirconia), and the dentist’s experience.
- Insurance may cover part of the cost if it’s medically necessary.
- A consultation with your dentist will give you the most accurate estimate.
Procedure and Recovery: Dental Bridge Treatment
Step 1 : Initial Consultation
Your dentist will check your teeth, take X-rays, and decide the best type of bridge for your situation.
Step 2 : Tooth Preparation
The teeth next to the gap (called abutment teeth) are slightly reshaped so crowns can fit over them and support the bridge.
Step 3 : Impressions
The dentist takes impressions (molds) of your teeth. These are sent to a dental lab where your custom bridge is made.
Step 4 : Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth and gums while you wait for the permanent one.
Step 5 : Permanent Bridge Placement
Once ready, the dentist fits and adjusts the new bridge to make sure it’s comfortable. It is then cemented into place.
Dental Bridges: Risks and Benefits
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restores Your Smile: A bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, making your smile look complete again.
- Improves Chewing & Speaking: Missing teeth can make it hard to chew or speak clearly. A bridge helps you eat and talk more comfortably.
- Keeps Teeth in Place: When there’s a gap, nearby teeth may shift. A bridge keeps your teeth aligned and stable.
- Fast & Non-Surgical Option: Unlike implants, bridges don’t require surgery. The process is quicker and less invasive.
Risks or Limitations
- Tooth Sensitivity: The natural teeth supporting the bridge may feel sensitive for a short time after the procedure.
- Decay Under Crowns: If not cleaned properly, the teeth beneath the crowns can still develop cavities or gum issues.
- Replacement Over Time: A dental bridge may need to be replaced after 10–15 years due to normal wear or changes in your mouth.
- May Affect Healthy Teeth: The supporting teeth need to be filed down, even if they are healthy, which can weaken them over time.
What Are the Pros and Cons of a Dental Bridge?
Pros of a Dental Bridge
- Improves Your Smile: A bridge fills the gap from missing teeth, giving you a complete, confident smile.
- Helps with Chewing and Speaking: Missing teeth can make it hard to chew food or talk clearly. A bridge makes both easier.
- Quick Treatment: Compared to dental implants, bridges are faster to complete and don’t require surgery.
- Prevents Shifting Teeth: Gaps can cause nearby teeth to move. A bridge helps keep your other teeth in the right place.
- Cost-Effective Option: Dental bridges are usually less expensive than implants, making them a more budget-friendly choice.
Advantages vs Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
Advantages | Disadvantages |
Restores your smile by filling the gap of missing teeth | May require healthy neighboring teeth to be trimmed |
Improves ability to chew and speak clearly | Not as long-lasting as dental implants |
Prevents nearby teeth from shifting out of place | Can be harder to clean underneath the bridge |
Quick and non-surgical procedure | Supporting teeth may develop cavities or wear down over time |
More affordable than implants | Needs replacement after 10–15 years in most cases |
Book An Appointment
Contact Information
- Address
1 – 58/7A, 2 nd Floor, National Highway 9, Madinaguda, Serilinampalle (M), Hyderabad Telangana – 500050
madinaguda@dwdc.in
- Phone
Q1. Dental bridge vs. implant: Which is better?
- A dental bridge is quicker and less expensive than an implant.
- An implant lasts longer and doesn’t affect surrounding teeth.
- The choice depends on your oral health, budget, and personal preference.
Q2. What’s the ideal age for a dental bridge?
- There’s no fixed age, but it’s usually for adults aged 18 and above.
- Your jaw must be fully developed before getting a bridge.
- Older adults often prefer bridges as a non-surgical option.
Q3. How many teeth can be on a bridge?
- A bridge can replace 1 to 4 missing teeth in a row.
- The number depends on the strength of the supporting teeth.
- Your dentist will assess your case to recommend the right bridge length.
Q4. How long can you wait to get a dental bridge?
- It’s best not to wait too long — missing teeth can cause shifting.
- Delaying can lead to bite problems or bone loss.
- Ideally, get a bridge within a few weeks or months of losing a tooth.
Q5. Is a dental bridge painful?
- The procedure itself is usually not painful (done under local anesthesia).
- Some mild soreness may occur after, but it goes away in a few days.
- Proper care and follow-up with your dentist helps reduce discomfort.
Q6. Do bridges feel like real teeth?
- You can eat and speak normally with a well-fitted bridge.
- After a short adjustment period, they feel very natural.
- Modern bridges are designed to match your bite and smile.
Q7. Can a dental bridge be removed and recemented?
- Yes, bridges can sometimes be removed and recemented by a dentist.
- This may happen if the bridge becomes loose or damaged.
- Don’t try to remove or fix it yourself — always see a professional.
Q8. A note from Cleveland Clinic (general advice)
- Dental bridges are a reliable solution for missing teeth.
- Good oral hygiene helps them last longer.
- Always talk to your dentist to find the best option for your needs.
Q9. What is a dental bridge?
- A dental bridge is a false tooth (or teeth) held in place by support teeth or implants.
- It “bridges the gap” where teeth are missing.
- It helps with chewing, speaking, and improving your smile.
Q10. Why would someone need a dental bridge?
- To replace missing teeth and restore the full function of their mouth.
- To prevent nearby teeth from shifting into the empty space.
- To improve appearance and confidence after tooth loss.
