How long do dental bridges last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a dental bridge can last for many years. Its lifespan can depend on factors such as the materials used, your bite, and how well the bridge and supporting teeth are cared for.

Is a dental bridge better than a dental implant?

Neither option is automatically better; it depends on your individual situation. A bridge is fixed and does not require surgery, but relies on support from adjacent teeth. An implant replaces the tooth root directly but involves a surgical procedure. Your dentist can help you decide which is more suitable for you.

Does getting a dental bridge hurt?

Local anaesthetic is used when preparing the teeth for a bridge, so the procedure itself is generally comfortable. Some sensitivity around the prepared teeth is possible in the days afterwards. If you experience dental anxiety or find it difficult to sit through longer appointments, sedation dentistry may also be an option to help you feel more relaxed throughout treatment.

How do I care for a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is cared for similarly to natural teeth, with extra attention to cleaning underneath the pontic. Your dentist may recommend specific tools, such as floss threaders or interdental brushes, along with regular check-ups.

Am I a suitable candidate for a dental bridge?

Suitability depends on the health of the teeth or bone supporting the bridge, as well as your overall oral health. A consultation with your dentist is the best way to find out whether a bridge, implant, or another option is right for you.

What payment options are available at My Dentist Geelong (Highton)?

My Dentist Geelong (Highton) offers a variety of payment options , including DentiCare payment plans, private health insurance rebates through HICAPS, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), and Department of Veterans’ Affairs dental benefits. Availability may depend on your treatment type and eligibility, so please check with the clinic when booking your appointment.

Can I get a same-day appointment for dental bridges?

Yes, we provide same-day appointments for urgent concerns, subject to availability. If you require urgent emergency dental care , our team will assess your condition and provide care to help relieve pain and stabilise your oral health.

Dental Bridges In Highton Geelong - My Dentist Geelong (Highton)

Q: What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It uses a false tooth, called a pontic, which is supported by crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or by a dental implant.

What is A Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is used to replace missing teeth.

A dental bridge is a fixed, custom-made restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by filling the gap with a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is held in place by crowns fitted over the natural teeth on either side of the gap.

Unlike dentures, a dental bridge is not removable. It is fixed in place by your dental professional during the bridge procedure, and with good care it can last for many years.

Your dentist may recommend a bridge where a tooth, or a series of teeth, is missing. Bridges are commonly used to improve the appearance and function of the teeth, support a more even bite, and close gaps that affect chewing or speech.

If you are unsure whether a dental bridge is the most suitable option for your needs, consult with your dentist to find out more about your situation.

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Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges, and the right option depends on the location of the gap, the condition of your surrounding teeth, and your dentist’s assessment.

Traditional dental bridge is held in place by a crown.

Traditional bridge

The most common type, held in place by a crown fitted over each of the natural teeth adjacent to the gap.

Cantilever bridge

Supported by a crown on only one side of the gap. This option may be considered when there is a healthy tooth on just one side of the missing tooth.

Maryland bridge uses a metal bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth.

Resin-bonded bridge (Maryland bridge)

A more conservative option that uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth, rather than crowns. This can mean less alteration to the adjacent teeth.

Implant-supported bridge

Anchored to one or more dental implants rather than natural teeth, often considered when several teeth in a row are missing or when the adjacent teeth are not suitable to support a traditional bridge.

Bridges are usually made from materials such as porcelain, zirconia or gold alloy, and resin-and-metal options are also available. Your dentist will discuss which material and bridge type best suits your situation during your consultation.

Signs You May Need A Dental Bridge

You may benefit from a dental bridge if you notice any of the following:

A visible gap from one or more missing teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting evenly on one side of your mouth
Nearby teeth appear to be shifting or drifting into the empty space
Changes in your bite, or discomfort in your jaw
Your face shape appears slightly different due to a missing tooth
Self-consciousness about a gap when speaking or smiling

A dental check-up is a good starting point if you are unsure whether a bridge is right for you. Our team can assess the gap, your surrounding teeth and your bite, and explain whether a bridge or another option may suit your situation.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges help to restore your smile and protect your oral health.

A dental bridge can improve the appearance of your smile by filling the visible gap left by a missing tooth.
It helps restore the function of missing teeth, making everyday tasks like eating and speaking more comfortable.
Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge can improve chewing comfort, particularly if you have been avoiding certain foods or favouring one side of your mouth.
A bridge supports a more balanced bite by keeping opposing and neighbouring teeth in their correct position.
It closes noticeable gaps between teeth, helping to prevent nearby teeth from gradually shifting out of place.

Beyond restoring the look and function of your smile, a dental bridge can also help protect your long-term oral health by reducing the strain placed on remaining teeth.

The Procedure of Dental Bridges

Getting a dental bridge is usually completed over a small number of visits.

Dentist is showing an X-ray to the patient to assess whether a dental bridge is suitable.

Consultation and assessment

Your dentist will examine the gap and the surrounding teeth, and may recommend X-rays to check the health of the tooth roots and supporting bone.

Dentist is preparing the adjacent tooth to begin the procedure.

Preparing the adjacent teeth

For a traditional or cantilever bridge, the supporting teeth are gently reshaped to make room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge.

Dentist is showing the patientâ€™s digital scan to make sure it fits their bite.

Taking impressions

Impressions or digital scans of your teeth are taken and used to create a bridge that is custom-made to fit your bite and match your surrounding teeth.

A temporary bridge is being fitted into the patientâ€™s teeth to protect the gum area.

Wearing a temporary bridge

While your custom bridge is being made, a temporary bridge may be fitted to protect the prepared teeth and gum area.

The dentist will check your dental bridge to ensure that it fits permanently.

Fitting your bridge

Once ready, your dentist will check the fit, bite and appearance of the bridge, make any necessary adjustments, and fit it permanently in place.

Dental Bridges vs Dental Implants

The comparison between dental bridge and dental implant.

If you have a missing tooth, a bridge is one of several options your dentist may discuss with you, alongside dental implants.

A dental bridge is fixed in place and does not rely on surgery, but it does require support from the adjacent teeth (or an implant).

Whereas, a dental implant replaces the tooth root directly and does not involve altering neighbouring teeth, though it involves a surgical placement and a longer treatment timeline.

There is no single best option for every patient. Your dentist can help you weigh the right choice based on your oral health, the location of the gap and your personal preferences.

For a more detailed comparison between them, read our full article on differences between a dental bridge and a dental implant.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

The patient is flossing their teeth to take good care of their dental bridge.

A dental bridge is cared for much like your natural teeth, with a few extra considerations:

Brush and floss daily, including cleaning carefully under and around the pontic.
Use interdental brushes or floss threaders if recommended by your dentist to reach beneath the bridge.
Attend regular dental check-ups and hygiene visits so your bridge and supporting teeth can be monitored.
Avoid chewing very hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge.

Why Choose My Dentist Geelong (Highton) for Dental Bridges?

My Dentist Geelong provides personalised treatment for your dental needs.

At My Dentist Geelong (Highton), we provide personalised treatment recommendations based on your dental needs and take the time to explain your options clearly, including how a bridge compares to other alternatives of replacing a missing tooth.

Our team focuses on patient comfort and practical, long-term treatment outcomes to help restore your smile and oral function.

Located in Highton, Geelong, our clinic offers convenient access for local patients seeking cosmetic and restorative dental care.

Health Funds for Dental Bridges

If you have private health insurance with dental extras, you may be able to claim part of the cost of your dental bridge appointment, depending on your level of cover and annual limits. The amount covered can vary between health funds and individual policies, so it is best to check before your appointment.

At My Dentist Geelong (Highton), our team can help you understand the payment options available at the clinic. Please bring your private health insurance card to your appointment so we can assist with your claim where applicable.

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Dental Bridges in Highton, Geelong