A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth (or teeth) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. It’s a well-established, comfortable way to restore your smile, your bite, and your ability to chew and speak clearly, without the gap ever being obvious to anyone but you.
At The Townsville Dental Centre, we design each bridge to match the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth, so the result looks and feels like part of your own smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge is made up of one or more replacement teeth, held in place by crowns fitted over the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. A bridge can typically replace up to four missing teeth in a row, provided there are strong, healthy teeth (or implants) at each end to support it.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridge
The most common type. Crowns are placed on the healthy teeth either side of the gap, supporting a false tooth in between.
Cantilever Bridge
Used when there’s only a healthy tooth on one side of the gap, rather than both.
Resin-Bonded (Maryland) Bridge
A more conservative option that bonds the replacement tooth to the back of neighbouring teeth using a metal or porcelain framework, without needing to reshape those teeth as heavily.
Implant-Supported Bridge
For larger gaps or where a longer-term, more durable solution is preferred, the bridge can be anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth.
Bridge, Implant, or Denture – Which Is Right for You?
A bridge is often a faster and more cost-effective way to replace missing teeth than an implant, and it doesn’t require the healing time implants need. Dentures remain a good option for replacing several or all teeth, but a fixed bridge stays in place permanently and doesn’t need to be removed for cleaning. We’ll talk through what suits your situation, budget, and the health of your remaining teeth at your consultation.
How Long Does a Bridge Take, and How Long Does It Last?
Fitting a bridge usually takes two appointments. First, we prepare the supporting teeth and take an impression, then fit a temporary bridge while your permanent one is crafted. At the second appointment, usually one to two weeks later, we fit and cement the final bridge. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, a well-made bridge can last 10 years or more.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Cleaning under and around your bridge is essential to keep the supporting teeth healthy. We’ll show you how to floss under the bridge using a floss threader or interdental brush, and recommend you keep up regular check-ups so we can monitor the fit and the health of the supporting teeth.
Book a Consultation for Dental Bridges in Townsville
If you’re living with a gap from a missing tooth, a bridge could be a straightforward, long-lasting fix. Book an appointment at our Kokoda Street or Fairfield Central clinic and we’ll talk you through your options.
Cost depends on the type of bridge and how many teeth need replacing. We’ll provide a clear, itemised quote at your consultation, and many health funds offer a rebate toward the cost.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the fitting. Some mild sensitivity in the days afterward is normal and settles quickly.
Can a dental bridge be replaced with an implant later?
In many cases, yes. If a bridge eventually needs replacing, an implant-supported option may be suitable at that time, depending on the health of the surrounding bone and teeth.
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