A dental bridge is a fixed, non-removable appliance used to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These anchor teeth are called abutment teeth.
Bridges are made from porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. They are cemented permanently in place and are not removed for cleaning.
Why might I need a bridge?
When a tooth is lost, the gap can cause several problems over time:
Neighbouring teeth can drift or tilt into the gap, causing bite problems
The opposing tooth (above or below the gap) can over-erupt (grow longer) into the space
Bone loss in the jaw at the site of the missing tooth
Difficulty chewing certain foods
Changes to your appearance or speech
A bridge restores the gap, maintains the position of surrounding teeth, and restores your ability to chew and smile with confidence.
What are my alternatives?
There are several options for replacing a missing tooth. Your dentist will discuss which suits you best:
Dental implant — a titanium post placed in the jawbone with a crown on top. Does not involve the neighbouring teeth. Considered the gold standard for tooth replacement but is more expensive and involves a surgical procedure.
Conventional dental bridge — fixed, natural-feeling, no surgery required. The neighbouring teeth are shaped (reduced) to act as anchors. Not suitable if the anchor teeth are unhealthy or heavily filled.
Resin-retained (Maryland) bridge — a minimally invasive alternative where the false tooth is attached to the backs of the neighbouring teeth using wings bonded with adhesive. Little or no tooth preparation is needed. This is an excellent option for some patients, particularly for front teeth, though it may be less suitable where biting forces are high.
Partial denture — removable appliance. No preparation of adjacent teeth. Less stable than a bridge or implant, but lower cost and no surgery.
No treatment — acceptable in some cases, particularly for back teeth not visible in the smile. However, drifting of neighbouring teeth and bone loss are likely over time.
What does the procedure involve?
Getting a dental bridge usually takes two or three appointments. The process varies depending on the type of bridge:
Conventional bridge:
The abutment teeth on either side of the gap are numbed with local anaesthetic
These teeth are shaped and prepared in the same way as for a crown — a thin, even layer is removed from all surfaces to create space for the bridge crowns
An impression or digital scan is taken
Temporary crowns and a temporary bridge are placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is made (usually 2–3 weeks)
At the second appointment, the permanent bridge is checked for fit, bite, and appearance and then cemented permanently in place
Resin-retained (Maryland) bridge:
Minimal or no preparation of the adjacent teeth is required — this is one of its main advantages
An impression or scan is taken
The bridge is bonded to the backs of the neighbouring teeth using adhesive wings at the fitting appointment
Your dentist will explain which type of bridge has been recommended for you and why.
Risks and possible complications
Common (affect more than 1 in 10 people):
Sensitivity in the prepared abutment teeth for several weeks
An adjustment period while you get used to the feel of the bridge
Mild gum soreness at the margins
Uncommon (affect about 1 in 10 to 1 in 100 people):
One or both abutment teeth may develop pulp problems and require root canal treatment — preparing teeth carries a small risk of affecting the pulp
Difficulty cleaning under the bridge (pontic area) leading to gum disease or decay if hygiene is not maintained
The bridge may need adjustment after fitting
Rare (affect fewer than 1 in 100 people):
The bridge becomes loose or de-cements
Porcelain chipping
Failure of an abutment tooth, which may mean the bridge cannot be saved
Bridges typically last 10–15 years with good care. The health of the underlying abutment teeth is the most important factor in long-term success.
Cleaning your bridge
Keeping a bridge clean requires extra effort because you cannot floss between the teeth in the normal way:
Use floss threaders or superfloss to clean under the pontic (the false tooth in the middle) and around the abutment teeth
An interdental brush is often the easiest way to clean around and under a bridge
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
A water flosser can help flush food debris from under the bridge
Attend regular hygienist appointments — professional cleaning is important to keep the bridge and surrounding gum healthy
Questions to ask your dentist
Are my anchor teeth healthy enough to support a bridge?
How much tooth structure will need to be removed from the neighbouring teeth?
Would an implant be a better long-term option for me?
How long do you expect this bridge to last?
What happens if one of the anchor teeth fails in the future?
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. It is intended to support — not replace — the discussion with your dentist about your individual options, risks, and treatment plan. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances. Your dentist will confirm exact fees and what is suitable for your specific circumstances before you agree to any treatment.