Dental Bridges in Mthatha

Dental Bridges in Mthatha – Replace Missing Teeth

At Every Smile Dentistry in Mthatha, we offer high-quality dental bridges to replace missing teeth, restore functionality, and enhance the appearance of your smile. 

A dental bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) to the neighboring natural teeth. 

Our custom bridges are crafted from durable, tooth-colored materials that blend seamlessly with your natural smile, helping you regain confidence, improve chewing, and maintain proper alignment of your teeth.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth. 

The bridge is anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants, which serve as supports (also called abutments), while the false tooth or teeth (known as pontics) span the gap. 

Types of dental bridges include:

• Traditional Bridges: The most common type, anchored by crowns on neighboring teeth.
• Cantilever Bridges: Supported by a single tooth on one side, used when only one adjacent tooth is available.
• Maryland Bridges: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, preserving natural tooth structure.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: Anchored by dental implants rather than natural teeth, ideal for larger gaps.

Before & After Transformations

At Every Smile Dentistry, we have helped patients regain their smiles with durable, natural-looking dental bridges. 

Below, you’ll find before and after images of patients who have replaced missing teeth with custom bridges. 

These examples showcase the aesthetic and functional improvements that dental bridges provide, restoring both confidence and quality of life.

The Dental Bridge Process: What to Expect

Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens during the dental bridge process:

1. Consultation and Treatment Planning: During your consultation, we assess your oral health and discuss the best type of bridge for your needs. We take X-rays and impressions to design a custom bridge that fits seamlessly into your smile.
2. Preparation of Abutment Teeth: For a traditional bridge, the teeth adjacent to the gap are prepared by reshaping them to fit crowns, which will support the bridge. This step ensures a secure and stable foundation for the bridge.
3. Taking Impressions: Impressions of the prepared teeth are taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom bridge is crafted. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is being made.
4. Fitting the Bridge: Once your bridge is ready, we remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent one. The bridge is adjusted for a comfortable fit, ensuring it aligns correctly with your bite. Once adjusted, it’s securely bonded in place.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

• Restores Functionality: Dental bridges restore your ability to chew and speak properly by filling the gap left by missing teeth.
• Improves Appearance: Bridges blend with natural teeth, restoring your smile’s aesthetics and boosting your confidence.
• Maintains Alignment: Filling the gap prevents neighboring teeth from shifting out of position, which helps maintain proper alignment.
• Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or more, offering a durable restoration for missing teeth.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge

To ensure the longevity of your dental bridge, follow these care tips:

• Brush and Floss Daily: Keep your bridge and supporting teeth clean by brushing twice a day and flossing under the bridge with a floss threader or water flosser.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist every six months to check the condition of your bridge and the health of your gums and adjacent teeth.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard foods can damage your bridge. Stick to softer foods and avoid biting down on hard candies or ice.
• Use a Mouthguard if Needed: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a night guard to protect your bridge and natural teeth.

Cost of Dental Bridges in Mthatha

The cost of a dental bridge at Every Smile Dentistry depends on the type and materials used:

• Traditional Bridges: Typically range from R6,000 to R12,000 per unit, depending on the material and number of teeth involved.
• Cantilever Bridges: Similar in cost to traditional bridges, generally R6,000 to R10,000.
• Maryland Bridges: Cost between R5,000 and R9,000 due to minimal tooth preparation.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: More extensive, starting around R15,000 per implant plus the cost of the bridge.

We offer flexible payment options and will provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation.