Bridges

It is possible to have a bridge fitted in case of partial loss of adjacent teeth. It is usually one or two, and in rare cases, three. If four teeth are missing in a row, other types of dentures should be used. For example, it is possible to combine a denture and an implant. This type of bridge is considered the preferred choice, as it is supported by an artificial root, not your own tooth, which needs to be prepared beforehand.

The main indications for bridge installation include:

• any contraindications to implantation. However, it should be kept in mind that there are very few absolute restrictions for implants. In most cases, removing the existing relative contraindications and performing an implant can be an alternative to a bridge;
• the fear of bone and plastic surgery that is sometimes required before implantation. This problem can also be solved by using advanced anti-stress treatments;
• significant damage to the supporting teeth, including large fillings and severe decay. In that case, the support is not too bad to dissect (grind).

The following can also be added to the advantages of dental bridges:

• a much cheaper way to recover;
• no surgical intervention is required;
• is put in place faster than the implant is inserted.

Please note that today there is a more functional and aesthetically pleasing way to restore a lost tooth than a bridge. We are talking about implants (artificial roots) covered by a crown. This is what we recommend our patients use. A bridge keeps its status as a faster and more affordable alternative to implantation.

Bridges are not the most flawless method of replacing lost teeth by today's dental standards. The disadvantages of these prostheses include:

• increased loads on the supporting teeth. A classic bridge, which is placed on two healthy teeth with two missing teeth in between, results in the entire masticatory load being transferred to the supporting teeth. Because of this, the negative effects on the periodontal and healthy dentition increase;
• the need for dissection. This is a prerequisite for placing a bridge. The good thing is that modern dentistry usually allows the nerve to be preserved, and the treatment itself is a minimally invasive procedure;
• lack of natural micro-mobility. The bridge, as a one-piece construction, causes teeth to shrink, they cannot move independently (which is the physiological norm). Again, the periodontium of healthy teeth suffers;
• risks of losing healthy "neighbours". If you have periodontal disease, you cannot have a bridge. Otherwise, there is a high risk of losing your supporting teeth;
• not the best option in terms of aesthetics. Bridges are not recommended for the smile area, as they cannot achieve maximum naturalness and authenticity. A monolithic denture does not involve interdental contacts (small gaps), which can be noticed by others.

Bridges can be classified into such types:

• classic prostheses. The crown completely covers the supporting teeth, and usually one or two teeth are missing between the healthy 'neighbours';
• adhesive prostheses. This is a single crown with lateral attachments on two healthy 'neighbours';
• cantilever dentures. A one-sided support is provided, which increases the load on the existing healthy tooth and the risks of its destruction;
• кcombined prostheses. They have removable and non-removable sections and are used for complex orthopaedic treatment.

At DENTART in Kyiv, we use bridges made of the following materials:

• metal-ceramic. The metal base of the denture is complemented by a ceramic coating;
• zirconium. These prostheses are made of zirconium dioxide and covered with ceramic on top. The most aesthetically pleasing variations that do not change colour and do not rub off. They are 100% biologically compatible.

We do not recommend the other alternatives, namely metal pressed and all-metal, as they are aesthetically inferior to the other options.

First, a preliminary examination and diagnosis of oral diseases is necessary. If there are indications, treatment is carried out. The orthopaedist then performs grinding and makes impressions. While the prosthesis is being manufactured in the laboratory, we will fit a temporary counterpart.

The immediate fitting of the bridge involves a mandatory trial fitting. After that, the crowns are fitted, ensuring a snug and airtight contact between the crowns and the supporting teeth.