Bridging those gaps at Open Dental
When a tooth is missing or needs to be removed it can be replaced by using a dental bridge. A bridge is a permanent replacement for the missing tooth, that is, once in place it is not removable for cleansing but has to be made cleansible and designed with gum health in mind.
Dental bridges are designed by your dentist and then constructed in the dental laboratory by our skilled dental technician. Once constructed your dentist will cement the bridge into place at a further appointment.
Dental Bridges
Bridges can be several different designs but generally we will use one of two types.
The first is a fixed bridge which is used when there are teeth either side of the gap that are already crowned. Our dental technician then constructs a framework which is then covered in porcelain for aesthetics and shaped to look like three separate teeth. The bridge is then cemented into place at a further appointment.
The second type of bridge we tend to use is a “sticky” or Maryland bridge. This is an example of Minimum Invasive Dentistry where we limit the amount of tooth that is removed for the restoration. This is far preferable when we have teeth either side of the gap that have not had any previous work carried out on them or perhaps smaller restorations.
Speak to a member of the Open Dental team on 020 7112 5353 for more information about Dental Bridges
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Dental Bridges · Fixed Tooth Replacement
Natural-looking
dental bridges
A dental bridge is a permanent, fixed solution for a missing tooth — anchored to the neighbouring teeth on each side, with no removal required. Natural-looking, durable, and completed at our Islington clinic.
Fixed
Permanently cemented
Ceramic
Natural-looking material
0%
Finance available
What is a Dental Bridge?A permanent replacement
A permanent replacement
that stays fixed in place.
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth. Unlike a denture, it is permanently cemented and does not come out — it looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth.
The bridge is anchored to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. These neighbouring teeth — called abutment teeth — are gently shaped to accept crowns, which support the false tooth (or pontic) spanning the gap between them.
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Fixed solution
No removal.
No adhesive.
No adhesive.
The Procedure
What to expect at your appointments
A bridge is typically completed over two appointments. We explain every step before we begin and provide a written treatment plan with costs upfront.
01
Assessment & Planning
We examine the gap and the neighbouring teeth, take X-rays and discuss your options. You receive a written treatment plan with costs before any work begins — no surprises.
02
Preparation
The abutment teeth on either side of the gap are gently shaped under local anaesthetic to make room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Impressions are taken and sent to our dental laboratory.
03
Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge is fitted while your permanent bridge is made — so you are never without a tooth. The lab crafts your bridge to the exact shape and shade prescribed by your dentist.
04
Fitting & Cementation
Your permanent bridge is checked for fit, comfort and appearance, then permanently cemented into place. Once fitted, it functions and feels like a natural tooth.
Making the Right Choice
Bridge or implant — which is right for you?
Both are fixed, permanent solutions for a missing tooth. The right choice depends on your bone levels, the health of the neighbouring teeth, and your individual circumstances. Your dentist will advise you honestly at your consultation.
Dental Bridge
Anchored to neighbouring teeth
- No surgery required
- Completed in two appointments
- Lower cost than an implant
- Suitable when neighbouring teeth already need crowning
- Suitable when bone levels are insufficient for an implant
Worth knowing
- Neighbouring teeth require preparation
- Gap beneath the bridge requires careful cleaning
Dental Implant
A titanium root placed directly in the jaw
- No preparation of neighbouring teeth
- Preserves jawbone and prevents bone loss
- The closest to a natural tooth in form and function
- With good care, can last a lifetime
Worth knowing
- Requires minor surgery and a healing period
- Higher upfront cost (0% finance available)
- Requires sufficient bone to place the implant
Not sure which is right for you? We offer both. Book a consultation and we'll assess your teeth, explain both options honestly, and help you make the decision that's right for your situation — with a written plan and costs before any work begins. Learn more about dental implants →
FAQ
Your questions answered
The questions we hear most often from patients about their hygiene appointments — answered honestly.
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic — you should feel pressure but no pain during the preparation appointment. There may be some tenderness in the treated area for a few days afterwards, which settles quickly and is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, a well-made bridge can last many years. Longevity depends on the health of the abutment teeth, how well the bridge is cleaned, and normal wear over time. Your dentist will advise you on how to care for it at the fitting appointment.
Because the pontic sits over the gum rather than being rooted in it, the gap beneath needs to be cleaned daily using interdental brushes or floss threaders. Your dentist or hygienist will show you the correct technique at your fitting appointment. This is one of the most important factors in how long a bridge lasts.
Yes. The bridge is made to match the shade, shape and size of your surrounding teeth. Once cemented, most patients find it indistinguishable from their natural teeth — both to look at and to feel.
Neither is universally better — they suit different situations. A bridge is quicker, requires no surgery, and costs less upfront. An implant preserves the jawbone and does not require any preparation of neighbouring teeth, making it the more conservative long-term option where it is possible. We offer both and will advise you honestly on which is more appropriate for your specific case at your consultation.
Yes — a bridge can span a gap of more than one missing tooth, provided the abutment teeth on either side are strong enough to support a longer span. Your dentist will assess the supporting teeth and advise whether a multi-unit bridge is appropriate in your situation.
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Regular professional hygiene is one of the most effective things you can do for your long-term oral health. Book an appointment with our specialist hygienist and feel the difference.