A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth using the healthy teeth on both sides of the gap for support. It is made in stages: examination, reshaping the supporting teeth under local anesthesia, impressions, a temporary bridge, a try-in and permanent cementation. It lasts 10-15 years on average, depending on oral care.
- Restores chewing function and prevents teeth from shifting.
- Can be made of porcelain-fused-to-metal or zirconia.
- The price varies depending on the material, number of units and any additional treatments.
- Superfloss and interdental brushes are recommended for cleaning under the bridge.
- Regular check-ups every 6 months extend the life of the bridge.
Oral and dental health directly affects our overall quality of life, our speech and, most importantly, our self-confidence. When one or more teeth are lost, both aesthetic and functional problems arise. This is where a traditional and reliable treatment method, the dental bridge, comes in.
As OptimaDent Dental Clinic in Bağlarbaşı, Üsküdar, we have prepared this article as a guide for you.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a type of fixed prosthesis made to replace one or more missing teeth by taking support from the healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. Just like a bridge connecting the two banks of a river, this treatment closes the gap left by the missing tooth with the help of the neighboring teeth.
Bridge treatment restores chewing function, corrects speech problems and preserves the position of the other teeth, which tend to shift over time because of the missing tooth.
How Is a Dental Bridge Made? (Step-by-Step Treatment Process)
At OptimaDent, our clinic in Bağlarbaşı, Üsküdar, dental bridge treatment combines modern digital and traditional methods with the aim of maximum patient comfort, and consists of the following stages:
- Examination and Planning: At the first session, a panoramic X-ray is taken and your mouth is examined in detail. The root health of the neighboring teeth that will provide support is checked.
- Preparing the Supporting Teeth: So that the bridge can sit on them, the supporting teeth to the right and left of the gap are slightly reduced (shaved down) under local anesthesia. The procedure is completely painless.
- Taking Impressions: Precise impressions of the prepared teeth and the inside of your mouth are taken. These impressions are sent to the laboratory to produce your custom porcelain or zirconia bridge.
- Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being made, a temporary bridge is fitted so that your teeth do not become sensitive and your appearance is not affected.
- Try-in and Fit: The permanent bridge from the laboratory is tried in your mouth. The bite, height and color match are checked.
- Permanent Cementation: When everything is perfect, the bridge is permanently fixed with special medical adhesives.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
One of the things our patients ask most is: How long does a dental bridge last?
The average lifespan of a dental bridge is 10 to 15 years. However, this depends entirely on the patient's oral care habits and regular dental check-ups. Keeping the gums under and around the bridge clean and using specially designed floss (superfloss) under the bridge extends its life. At OptimaDent, with the regular 6-month check-ups we recommend to our patients, we help ensure that bridges stay healthy and long-lasting.
How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
There is no single fixed answer to the question how much does a dental bridge cost? Material Used: Prices differ between porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges and zirconia bridges, which give a much better aesthetic result.
- Number of Units (Teeth): How many teeth the bridge will consist of (e.g., a single gap requires a 3-unit bridge).
- Additional Treatments: Whether the supporting teeth need root canal treatment or fillings.
For Current and Clear Information: Prices are determined after examination and depend on the treatment plan. You can visit our clinic in Bağlarbaşı, Üsküdar, to receive your personalized treatment plan.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is better, a dental bridge or an implant?
With implant treatment, the neighboring teeth are not touched; an artificial root is placed directly into the bone. With a bridge, the adjacent teeth need to be reduced. If your jawbone is suitable and your budget allows, an implant is generally the more conservative option. However, a bridge is an excellent alternative when bone is insufficient or a fast solution is desired.
Do people feel pain when getting a dental bridge?
Because the procedure is performed entirely under local anesthesia, you will feel no pain in the chair. After the teeth are reduced, you will have temporary teeth until the permanent bridge is fitted, so sensitivity to hot and cold is also kept to a minimum.
Does a dental bridge cause bad odor underneath?
A properly made bridge with a perfect marginal fit does not cause odor on its own. However, if cleaning under the bridge is neglected, food debris can build up and lead to bad breath. To prevent this, using interdental brushes and a water flosser is recommended.
A Trusted Address in Bağlarbaşı, Üsküdar: OptimaDent
Don't hide your smile because of missing teeth. Located in Bağlarbaşı, Üsküdar, very close to public transport and central points, OptimaDent Dental Clinic is at your service with its team of expert dentists. With our modern technological infrastructure, we confidently provide natural, aesthetic dental bridge treatments that best suit your facial features.
To get treatment at a modern and comfortable clinic without putting off your health, contact us today.
