Cosmetic, Implant and General DentistryDental Bridges in Luton
A bridge is a fixed (non-removable) way to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring a false tooth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, closing it permanently rather than with a removable denture. It's a treatment we carry out regularly for patients across Luton and the wider Bedfordshire area.
Dental Bridge or Implant: Which is Right for You?
We’re often asked how a bridge compares to a dental implant. A bridge is usually quicker to complete and doesn’t require the healing time an implant needs, but it relies on the two neighbouring teeth being prepared and used as support. An implant, by contrast, doesn’t involve any adjustment to the neighbouring teeth but takes longer overall and involves a separate healing phase. Neither is automatically ‘better’; it depends on the condition of your neighbouring teeth, the gap being filled, and your own priorities, which is exactly what we’ll go through together at your consultation.
From Prep to Permanent: How We Fit a Bridge
The two supporting teeth are prepared in a similar way to crown preparation, an impression or digital scan is taken, and a temporary bridge is fitted while the permanent one is made in the lab. At your second visit, we fit the finished bridge, checking the fit and bite carefully before it’s permanently cemented.
Cleaning Around a Bridge, Day to Day
Because a bridge sits over the gum line at the missing tooth site, cleaning underneath it needs a bit more attention than a natural tooth. We’ll show you how to use floss threaders or interdental brushes to keep the area clean, which matters for the long-term health of the supporting teeth. If a bridge isn’t the right fit for your situation, dentures may be a more suitable alternative; we’ll talk through both at your consultation.
Dental Bridge fees
| Treatment | Fee |
|---|---|
| Dental Bridge | Price on consultation; see note below |
1. What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a false tooth (or teeth) fused between two crowns, used to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. The crowns are fitted onto the teeth on either side of the gap, holding the false tooth firmly in place. This is known as a fixed bridge, and it cannot be removed from the mouth.
2. Why should I replace a missing tooth?
Beyond appearance, a gap left by a missing tooth can place extra strain on the neighbouring teeth. It can also affect your bite, as adjacent teeth may lean into the space over time, which in some cases can contribute to jaw joint problems.
3. What are the benefits of a fixed bridge?
A fixed bridge can make eating and chewing more comfortable, help restore confidence in your smile, and — because it’s fixed rather than removable — there’s no need to take it out for cleaning. With good care, bridges are designed to be a durable, long-term option.
4. How are missing teeth usually replaced?
This depends on how many teeth are missing, their position in the mouth, and the condition of your remaining teeth. Options include a removable partial denture, a fixed bridge, or a dental implant with a crown. Our dentist will assess your individual case and talk you through which option may be suitable.
5. When is a bridge recommended rather than an implant or denture?
A bridge is often considered where the gap is bordered by solid teeth that already have crowns or large fillings, as these teeth can be used to support the bridge. Our dentist will assess whether this is the right option for you, or whether an implant or denture may be more appropriate.
6. What materials are dental bridges made from?
Bridges are usually made from porcelain bonded to metal, zirconia (a high-strength ceramic), or metal alone. Our dentist will recommend a material based on the location of the gap, the strength required, and your aesthetic preferences.
7. How do I look after my bridge?
Your bridge needs to be cleaned every day, including underneath the false tooth, to help prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. As a normal toothbrush can’t reach every area, our dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a special brush and floss designed for bridges.
8. Can I have a tooth replacement that attaches to the jawbone instead?
Yes, this is possible with a dental implant. Implants may allow missing teeth to be replaced without needing to crown the adjacent teeth. Suitability varies from person to person, so please ask us for more details or visit our dental implants page.
9. Is it still important to look after my other teeth once I have a bridge?
Yes. It’s just as important to care for your remaining natural teeth as it is to look after your bridge, since the health of the supporting teeth affects how well the bridge functions over time.
10. How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost of a bridge varies depending on its size, the number of teeth being replaced, and the material used. We recommend booking a consultation so our dentist can assess your case and provide a written estimate and treatment plan before any work begins.