Dental Bridge: How It Works, Cost & Care

If you’ve lost one or more teeth, a dental bridge can fill the gap and bring back your bite. A bridge is essentially a false tooth (or teeth) anchored to the teeth on either side of the space. It looks like a normal tooth, feels sturdy, and lets you chew without worry.

Getting a bridge starts with a quick exam. Your dentist checks the surrounding teeth, gums and bite to make sure they can support the bridge. Then they take impressions – either a physical mold or a digital scan – that guide the lab in crafting a perfectly fitting piece.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are three main styles, each suited to different situations:

• Traditional bridge: The classic design uses crowns on the teeth next to the gap (called abutments) and a pontic (the false tooth) in the middle. It’s strong and works well when the neighboring teeth are healthy enough for crowns.
• Cantilever bridge: This version only needs one abutment tooth. It’s used when the missing tooth is at the end of the dental arch, so there’s only one side to attach to.
• Maryland (resin‑bonded) bridge: Instead of full crowns, a thin metal or porcelain wing is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. It’s less invasive and cheaper, but not as durable for heavy chewing.

Choosing the right type depends on the location of the gap, the health of nearby teeth and your budget. Your dentist will walk you through the pros and cons of each.

After‑Care and Maintenance

Once the bridge is in place, treating it like a natural tooth is key. Brush twice a day with a soft‑bristled brush, floss around the bridge using a floss threader or interdental brush, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. This prevents plaque buildup that could cause decay on the abutment teeth.

Avoid chewing hard candy, ice or pens with the bridged side for the first few weeks. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a night guard – it can spare the bridge from excessive pressure.

Regular check‑ups every six months let the dentist inspect the bridge and the supporting teeth. If a crown starts to loosen or a tooth shows signs of decay, catching it early saves you from larger repairs later.

Costs vary across the UK. A traditional bridge typically runs between £500 and £1,200 per unit, while a Maryland bridge can be as low as £300. Private dental insurance may cover part of the fee, but many plans treat bridges as elective work. Ask your provider for specific coverage details.

What about alternatives? Dental implants are the most permanent solution, but they cost more (£2,000‑£3,000 per tooth) and require surgery. Veneers can mask a small gap, but they don’t replace a missing tooth. If you’re on a tight budget, a removable partial denture might work, though it’s less stable than a fixed bridge.

In short, a dental bridge offers a reliable, natural‑looking fix for missing teeth. It restores function, supports facial structure and boosts confidence. Talk to your dentist about which bridge style fits your mouth, your lifestyle and your wallet, and you’ll be smiling again in no time.