Tooth Bridge: Restore Your Smile and Function with Confidence

A tooth bridge is a dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between healthy teeth. It restores your ability to chew, speak, and smile naturally. For patients with missing teeth, a tooth bridge can be a reliable, fixed alternative to removable dentures. 

At EZ Dental Care, our dentists in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru provide custom-made dental bridges designed to blend seamlessly with your natural smile.

Key Takeaways

• A tooth bridge replaces missing teeth by attaching artificial teeth (pontics) to healthy neighbouring teeth or dental implants.

• Types include traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges.

• Dental bridges can improve chewing, speech, and bite alignment.

• Bridges require proper oral care and regular check-ups at a dental clinic in Singapore to last long-term.

• EZ Dental Care offers comfortable, professional care for dental bridges at its Bedok North and Geylang Bahru clinics.

  
  

A tooth bridge is a fixed dental appliance that fills the gap caused by one or more missing teeth. It helps restore the natural look and function of your smile. Dentists in Singapore, including those at EZ Dental Care, offer several bridge types such as traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported, depending on the patient’s oral health and needs.

What Is a Tooth Bridge and Why Does It Help?

A tooth bridge, also known as a dental bridge, is a custom-made structure that literally bridges the space left by missing teeth. It consists of two main parts:

• Abutments: the supporting structures (either healthy natural teeth or dental implants) that anchor the bridge.

• Pontics: the artificial teeth that fill the gap and restore your smile.

  
  

A dental bridge improves both appearance and function. It allows patients to chew comfortably, maintain proper bite alignment, and prevent nearby teeth from shifting into empty spaces.

If you’ve lost a tooth due to decay, injury, or gum disease, a tooth bridge offers a stable and natural-looking replacement option.

How Does a Tooth Bridge Work?

The principle of a dental bridge is simple. It uses the teeth on either side of the missing space as supports. The bridge is then bonded or secured over these anchor points.

There are four common types of dental bridges:

1. Traditional Dental Bridge

   • The most common type.

   • Involves crowns on both sides of the gap, holding pontics in between.

   • Ideal when you have healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth.

     
     

2. Cantilever Dental Bridge

   • Similar to a traditional bridge, but supported on only one side.

   • Used when only one neighbouring tooth is available.

   • Less stable than a traditional bridge, suitable for areas with lower chewing pressure.

     
     

3. Maryland Dental Bridge

   • Uses metal or porcelain “wings” bonded to the back of neighbouring teeth.

   • Commonly used for front teeth where minimal chewing force occurs.

   • Less invasive and preserves natural tooth structure.

     
     

4. Implant-Supported Bridge

   • Secured to dental implants rather than natural teeth.

   • Requires surgery to place implants, followed by a healing period.

   • Recommended when several consecutive teeth are missing.

What Happens During a Dental Bridge Procedure?

The procedure varies depending on the bridge type.

For Traditional or Cantilever Bridges

1. Preparation: Local anaesthesia is applied. The supporting teeth are reshaped by removing a small portion of enamel to make room for crowns.

2. Impressions: The dentist takes impressions for the lab to create the final bridge.

3. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge is placed for protection while waiting two to four weeks for the permanent one.

4. Placement: During a follow-up visit, the temporary bridge is replaced with the permanent one and securely bonded.

For Maryland Bridges

1. Preparation: Teeth surfaces are etched for bonding.

2. Impressions: Sent to a lab for fabrication.

3. Bonding: The wings are bonded to the backs of the supporting teeth using dental resin cement.

For Implant-Supported Bridges

1. Implant Placement: Dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone.

2. Healing: The implants integrate with the bone (three to six months).

3. Bridge Attachment: Once healed, the bridge is attached using abutments or screws.

Why Do People Get Dental Bridges?

Patients choose dental bridges for many practical reasons:

• Restores function: Bridges improve chewing and speech clarity.

• Prevents movement: Keeps surrounding teeth from shifting into empty spaces.

• Enhances appearance: Bridges restore facial balance and confidence.

• Non-surgical option: Traditional bridges don’t require surgery.

• Affordable: Usually less costly than dental implants.

For many patients, a tooth bridge offers an effective balance between function, comfort, and cost.

The Downsides of Dental Bridges

While bridges offer clear benefits, they also have some limitations.

1. Natural Teeth May Be Altered Supporting teeth must be reshaped to fit crowns. This process removes some healthy enamel.

2. Does Not Prevent Bone Loss Unlike dental implants, bridges don’t replace tooth roots. The jawbone beneath the missing tooth may slowly deteriorate.

3. Possible Sensitivity Some patients experience sensitivity to cold or sweet foods, particularly with metal-based bridges.

4. Food Trapping and Decay Risk Poorly fitted bridges can trap food along the gum line, increasing the risk of decay or infection.

5. Limited Lifespan With proper care, bridges last 10–15 years. Over time, wear or changes in the supporting teeth may require replacement.

If long-term bone preservation is a priority, your dentist near you may also discuss implant-supported options.

How to Choose the Right Tooth Bridge

Selecting the right tooth bridge depends on several factors:

• Number of missing teeth

• Condition of neighbouring teeth

• Oral hygiene habits

• Budget and long-term goals

• Overall health of gums and jawbone

  
  

A consultation at a dental clinic in Singapore like EZ Dental Care helps you understand which bridge type suits your condition.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

A well-maintained bridge can serve you for many years. To keep it in good condition:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss daily, especially under the bridge, using a floss threader or interdental brush.

• Visit your dentist regularly for cleaning and check-ups.

• Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or nuts that could damage the bridge.

• Monitor changes in bite or gum health and report them early.

Where to Compare Options and What to Check

When comparing tooth bridge options, consider:

• The dentist’s experience with restorative procedures.

• The materials used (porcelain, ceramic, metal, or zirconia).

• Whether you prefer a removable or fixed option.

• Maintenance requirements and long-term cost.

  
  

You can explore and compare services with providers in Singapore, including EZ Dental Care, known for its personalised treatments at both Bedok North and Geylang Bahru locations.

FAQs About Tooth Bridges

How long does a dental bridge last?

 With good care, most bridges last 10 to 15 years or longer.

 Is getting a bridge painful?

No. Dentists use local anaesthesia, and most patients report minimal discomfort.

Can I eat normally with a bridge?

Yes, once you adjust, you can enjoy most foods. Avoid biting hard substances directly with your bridge.

How do I clean under a dental bridge?

 Use a floss threader or special bridge floss to clean underneath the pontics.

Can bridges be repaired?

Minor damage can sometimes be repaired. Severe damage may require a replacement.

Are dental bridges better than implants?

Each has advantages. Bridges are quicker and less invasive. Implants last longer and preserve bone health.

What materials are dental bridges made of?

They can be made from porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or metal alloys, depending on your needs.

Can I replace my old bridge?

Yes. If your current bridge is worn or damaged, a replacement can restore comfort and appearance.

Restore Confidence and Function with a Tooth Bridge at EZ Dental Care

A tooth bridge is a dependable way to replace missing teeth and restore natural function. It helps maintain proper bite alignment, prevents teeth from shifting, and brings back your ability to chew and speak comfortably.

At EZ Dental Care, we offer personalised tooth bridge treatments in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru, crafted to blend seamlessly with your smile. Our dentists focus on comfort and long-term results, ensuring your new bridge feels and looks natural.

If you’re dealing with missing teeth or struggling with chewing and speech, book a consultation to find out how a custom dental bridge can restore your confidence and oral health.

Contact Us: 

📍 Bedok North Dental Clinic / 📞 +65 9122 8283 

📍 Geylang Bahru Dental Clinic / 📞 +65 8288 7312