General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Bridges

Replace missing teeth with a fixed dental bridge

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the space left behind. Depending on the design, the bridge is supported by suitable neighbouring teeth or other planned supports and includes an artificial tooth or teeth to restore the gap. Unlike a removable partial denture, a conventional bridge is fixed in place and is not removed for daily cleaning. It also differs from a dental implant, which replaces a missing tooth using an implant placed in the jaw rather than relying on neighbouring teeth for support. At West-Med Majik Forest, your dentist will assess the gap, supporting teeth, gums and bite to determine whether a bridge is a suitable option and discuss the alternatives available to you.

Planning a stable, natural-looking dental bridge

Your first appointment focuses on assessing the missing tooth or teeth and the structures that could support a bridge. The dentist examines the neighbouring teeth, gums and bite and may take X-rays where clinically required. If a conventional bridge is recommended, the supporting teeth are carefully prepared to receive the restoration. An impression or scan is then taken so the bridge can be made to fit the space and your bite. A temporary restoration may be used while the final bridge is being produced. At the fitting appointment, the dentist checks the fit, contacts, bite and appearance before securing the bridge in place. The exact design and number of appointments depend on your individual case and will be explained before treatment begins.

Why choose West-Med Majik Forest for bridges

Bridge treatment at West-Med Majik Forest is planned with both the missing tooth and the health of the supporting teeth in mind. Your dentist will assess whether the neighbouring teeth are suitable for a bridge and discuss other replacement options where relevant. Care is taken to achieve a comfortable bite, appropriate fit and natural appearance. Because cleaning underneath a bridge is different from cleaning a natural tooth, aftercare forms an important part of the treatment. You will be shown how to clean around and beneath the restoration and advised on regular dental reviews to monitor the bridge and supporting teeth.

Where to have this done

Majik ForestBellville

Not sure whether this is what you need? Call 021 490 4380 and describe the problem. Reception will book you with the right person.

General questions

Bridges: common questions

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What is the difference between a bridge and an implant?

A bridge generally uses neighbouring teeth to support a replacement tooth, while an implant is placed in the jaw to support a restoration independently. The most appropriate option depends on your oral health and individual circumstances.

Is a dental bridge removable?

A conventional dental bridge is fixed in place by the dentist and is not removed at home. This differs from a removable partial denture, which the patient takes out for cleaning and, depending on advice, overnight.

Does getting a bridge hurt?

Local anaesthetic is normally used when supporting teeth need preparation, helping keep treatment comfortable. Some temporary sensitivity or gum tenderness can occur afterwards. Your dentist will explain what to expect based on the bridge design.

How do I clean underneath a dental bridge?

You will need to clean beneath the replacement tooth as well as around the supporting teeth. Your dental team can demonstrate suitable flossing or interdental cleaning techniques and recommend products that make daily cleaning easier.

Will my medical aid cover a dental bridge?

Coverage depends on your medical aid plan, dental benefits, waiting periods and available limits. We recommend confirming benefits before treatment. West-Med can provide the proposed treatment details or quotation for you to submit.

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