A prosthetic bridge is a type of permanently cemented replacement for missing teeth. Using bridges, we are able to rebuild single or multiple gaps between teeth. Before starting treatment, we must perform detailed X-ray diagnostics. Sometimes it will be necessary to undergo root canal treatment of the tooth/tooth that is the future pillar. In order to use a bridge, it is necessary to grind the teeth adjacent to the section being filled, where the teeth are missing. After installing the bridge, the teeth look natural because the color of the porcelain is matched to the color of other teeth.
Porcelain Bridge
- bridges on a metal substructure made of base steel - the substructure consists of base metal alloys such as nickel and cobalt. These are the most common types of bridges. The metal framework provides sufficient mechanical strength. A satisfactory aesthetic effect is achieved around the side teeth. However, in the area of the front teeth, this effect may be insufficient. We do not perform such bridges for people allergic to certain metals.
- bridges on a metal foundation made of precious metal alloys: gold, silver, platinum - here, mechanical strength is also ensured. However, thanks to the properties of precious metals, we achieve a much better cosmetic effect. The bactericidal (bacteriostatic) aspect of high-grade gold alloys is also noteworthy - these are the most biocompatible materials. This allows us to achieve a very good tightness of the restoration and there are virtually no allergies to this type of restoration.
- bridges on a zirconium foundation - this is a type of reconstruction that combines the positive aspects of the above-mentioned restorations. Zirconium oxide is a very durable material, as evidenced by the fact that it is currently used, among others, in space technology. Thanks to its properties, it ensures the best cosmetic effect and excellent durability. Therefore, we use it to make bridges both for front and side teeth. Does not cause allergies
- bridge on implants – in this type of reconstruction, we use previously implanted implants as pillars for the bridge.
Stages of making bridges.
When planning to build a bridge, you should have approx 2 week period. It is necessary to take into account the fact that the number of visits may increase.
- First visit is a consultation with a doctor and preparation of teeth for a bridge. During this visit, impressions are taken to make models.
- Second visit – this means trying on the bridge substructure and selecting the color.
- Third visit – cementing the finished bridge.
This is the basic scheme for making prosthetic bridges. We consult the planning of visits, course of treatment and costs individually with the patient. Remember that this type of work takes years to complete and we care about the best possible quality and aesthetics, so rushing is not recommended.
Composite Bridge (Adhesive):
Composite bridges belong to the group of adhesive connections that use micro-connections of the etched enamel surface with composite bonding systems. The method involves modeling an artificial composite tooth in the mouth. If conditions are favorable, it is possible to make a composite bridge enriched with a porcelain veneer. Usually, they are mainly missing upper lateral incisors.
The advantage of this method is that there is no need to grind healthy teeth, which makes such solutions reversible. Moreover, it can be used successfully in situations where other methods cannot be used, e.g. due to lack of adequate space for an implant or when the need to grind teeth for a classic bridge would be too mutilating or because the price is too high. The system for permanently replacing a missing tooth is limited to one two-hour visit.
Fiberglass Bridge:
A fiberglass bridge is a solution for people who do not want to grind the adjacent teeth as is the case with classic porcelain bridges. This solution involves gluing fiberglass to the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth and rebuilding a composite crown on it. This method allows you to fill the gap immediately after extraction, as a temporary solution. The irresistible advantage of a fiberglass bridge is the fact that it can be made in just one visit to the dentist's office, and the cost is relatively lower. An adhesive bridge is made when one tooth is missing.