What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices used to “bridge” the gap left by missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (poetics) anchored by crowns placed on the neighbouring healthy teeth, known as abutment teeth.
Dental bridges offer a tempting solution for replacing missing teeth. They restore both aesthetics and functionality, but like any treatment, they come with some considerations. Vilafortuny Dubai helps to explain the advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision.
The Advantages of Dental Bridges:
- Natural Appearance: Porcelain and zirconia Dental bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, creating a realistic and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Improved Function: Missing teeth can make chewing and speaking challenging. Bridges restore these functions, allowing you to eat and communicate with confidence.
- Prevents Teeth from Shifting: Gaps left by missing teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift out of place. Bridges prevent this from happening, maintaining proper tooth alignment.
The Disadvantages of Dental Bridges:
- Abutment Health: Dental bridges rely on healthy teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth) for support. If these teeth are not strong enough or become damaged, the bridge itself can be compromised.
- Potential for Damage: Abutment teeth can fracture under the pressure of supporting a bridge, especially if they have existing weaknesses.
- Oral Hygiene Challenges: Maintaining proper hygiene around a bridge requires extra care, as plaque and bacteria can accumulate under the bridge and around the abutment teeth. If not addressed, this can lead to gum disease and cavities.
Types of Dental Bridges Available at Vilafortuny Dubai
- Porcelain Bridges – Ideal for front teeth with a natural aesthetic look
- Zirconia Dental Bridges – Extremely strong, ideal for longer spans and molars
- Gold Bridges – Known for longevity and strength
- Metal-Ceramic Bridges – A hybrid of strength and appearance
- All-Ceramic or Composite Bridges – For highly aesthetic areas and minimally invasive treatment
We will help you select the best material based on your functional needs, aesthetic goals, and budget.
Dental Bridge Procedure: Step-by-Step
- Consultation & Diagnosis
Using 3D imaging and intraoral scans, we assess your oral health and suitability for a bridge. - Preparation of Abutment Teeth
The neighbouring teeth are shaped to support the bridge. - Digital Impressions & Temporary Bridge
We take a digital scan to fabricate your bridge and place a temporary one while your custom version is being made. - Bridge Placement
Your permanent dental bridge is bonded into place for a secure and natural fit.
Are Dental Bridges Right for You?
✅ One or more missing teeth
✅ Healthy abutment teeth or implant-supported bridges
✅ Seeking a non-removable option
✅ Looking for an alternative to dentures
Things to Consider
While dental bridges are effective, it’s important to be aware of potential limitations:
🔹 Abutment Tooth Stress – Bridges rely on neighbouring teeth, which must be healthy and strong.
🔹 Oral Hygiene – Bridges require diligent care to prevent plaque buildup around the base.
🔹 Longevity – With proper hygiene and routine checkups, bridges can last 10–15 years or more.
Book Your Dental Bridge Consultation in Dubai
At Vilafortuny Dental Clinic, we combine advanced technology, artistic expertise, and compassionate care to create beautiful, functional smiles. Whether you are replacing a single tooth or multiple, our ceramic and porcelain dental bridges are crafted for longevity and natural beauty.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover the best solution to restore your smile.
Vilafortuny Services
Get In Touch With Us
Call us anytime
+971 4 394 3618
Email us
Book An Appointment
Book a visit to Vilafortuny, simply fill out the form below and we will contact you back regarding the intervention you require.
Dental Bridges: Your Guide to a Restored Smile at Vilafortuny Dubai
How long does it take to recover after a dental bridge procedure?
Healing times vary, but you can expect one to two weeks for your mouth to adjust to your new bridge. It might take a little longer to feel completely natural.
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care, bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer! However, they are not permanent and will eventually require replacement due to wear and tear. Vilafortuny Dubai’s dental hygienists can guide you on proper bridge care to maximise its lifespan.
How do I take care of my dental bridge?
Caring for your bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing daily, using a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste recommended by our dentists, and cleaning under the bridge with floss threaders or interdental brushes are essential. Avoiding hard or chewy foods, using your teeth for non-chewing purposes, and scheduling regular checkups and cleanings at Vilafortuny Dubai will all contribute to the longevity of your bridge.
Dental bridges vs. implants: Which is better?
Dental implants are known for their exceptional durability and ability to preserve jawbone health. Bridges, however, offer a more cost-effective solution. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and oral health. Our experienced dentists at Vilafortuny Dubai can assess your situation and recommend the most suitable option for you.
What's the ideal age for a dental bridge?
Dentists typically recommend waiting until after the jawbone has fully developed, around 21 years old, before placing bridges. However, there can be exceptions for younger patients who have lost permanent teeth. In such cases, alternative solutions like Maryland bridges and temporary partial dentures might be explored.
How many teeth can a bridge replace?
Dental bridges typically replace one to three missing teeth in a row. In some cases, up to four consecutive teeth can be bridged. However, longer bridges require more support from surrounding teeth. Our dentists at Vilafortuny Dubai will consider these factors when creating your personalised treatment plan.
How long can I wait to get a dental bridge?
While replacing missing teeth promptly is recommended to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, there might be situations where a few months of waiting are necessary. For instance, if a tooth extraction is required before bridge placement, allowing your gums and jawbone time to heal is crucial for optimal bridge placement. Our team at Vilafortuny Dubai can advise you on the best course of action.
Is a dental bridge painful?
The bridge placement procedure itself shouldn’t be painful, as local anaesthesia is used to numb the area. Our dentists at Vilafortuny Dubai prioritize your comfort throughout the process.
Do bridges feel like real teeth?
It can take some time to get used to your new dental bridge, but eventually, it should feel similar to your natural teeth.
Can a dental bridge be removed and re-cemented?
The ease of removing a bridge depends on its current condition. Loose bridges are generally simpler to remove and recement at Vilafortuny Dubai. However, bridges needing removal for other reasons, like treating gum disease, might break during the process, necessitating a new bridge.
Dr. Kathrin Trelles
General dental practitioner
Dr Kathrin Trelles, a general dental practitioner and founder of state-of-the-art dentistry, plastic and aesthetic laser surgery clinic Vilafortuny, has been practising in Dubai since 1999 …
Dr. Saghi Helmi
General dental practitioner
Dr Saghi Helmi graduated from Amsterdam University in 1994, passionate about creating beautiful smiles and dentistry, embarked on the Digital Smile Design journey since 2018 with a Master in Digital Smile Design…
