A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a replacement tooth to the teeth or implants on either side of the gap. It is fixed in place and is not removed for cleaning, which distinguishes it from a denture.

Whether a bridge is the right option depends on the size of the gap, the condition of the teeth either side, the health of the gums and bone, and your bite. The named dentist confirms this at assessment, and the alternatives should be set out alongside it.

Types of bridge

Conventional fixed bridge. The teeth on both sides of the gap are prepared and crowned, and the replacement tooth is joined between them. This requires removing tooth structure from otherwise healthy teeth.

Cantilever bridge. Supported on one side only. Used in limited situations, as the support tooth carries more load.

Resin-bonded bridge. A replacement tooth held by thin wings bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. Less tooth is removed, but it is not suited to every site or bite.

Implant-supported bridge. Anchored to implants rather than natural teeth, so neighbouring teeth are left untouched. This requires sufficient bone and a separate surgical stage. See our dental implants and bone grafting treatment pages.

Bridge, implant or denture

These are different solutions to the same problem and are not interchangeable. An implant replaces the root as well as the crown and does not rely on the neighbouring teeth. A denture is removable and can replace several teeth at lower cost. A bridge is fixed but depends on the teeth supporting it.

The right choice depends on how many teeth are missing, the condition of the supporting teeth, bone volume, gum health and what you want to maintain long term. Your dentist should explain why one is proposed over the others, including the option of no treatment.

Materials

Bridges are made in the same materials as crowns, and the choice affects appearance, strength and how much tooth must be prepared. See our dental crowns page for the options, including zirconium and E.max.

What the treatment involves

At assessment the dentist examines the site, checks the supporting teeth and gums and takes the imaging needed. The supporting teeth are then prepared, an impression or scan is taken, and a temporary bridge is usually fitted while the permanent one is made. At the fitting appointment the fit, bite and appearance are checked before the bridge is cemented.

The number of appointments and the time between them depend on the case. Your written plan should state how many visits are required and how long you need to remain in Izmir.

Risks and limitations

Preparing the supporting teeth is irreversible. Those teeth may become sensitive, and in some cases root canal treatment is needed later. Decay can develop at the margins where the bridge meets the tooth, and gum disease around the supporting teeth can undermine the whole bridge.

A bridge does not prevent bone loss in the gap underneath it, as an implant does. Over time the gum can recede and leave a visible space beneath the replacement tooth. If a supporting tooth fails, the bridge usually has to be replaced rather than repaired.

No fixed lifespan applies. How long a bridge lasts depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, grinding, the health of the supporting teeth and whether new decay develops.

Care

Cleaning under the replacement tooth is essential and needs a floss threader, interdental brush or water flosser, because ordinary flossing cannot pass through. Regular examinations and professional cleaning protect the supporting teeth; see our teeth cleaning and periodontal treatments pages.

Treatment with Revitalize in Turkey

Treatment arranged through Revitalize takes place in Izmir. The dentist and the facility are contracted providers and are named in your written treatment plan, so you can check who will carry out the work before you travel. See our contracted surgeons and specialists and contracted hospitals pages.

Our treatment process page sets out each stage, and the treatment guarantee page explains the limited written warranty that applies. Indicative figures are in our price list, but the figure that applies to you is the one in your written plan.

We publish verified patient reviews and patient videos. Individual experiences do not predict the result another patient will have.

Frequently asked questions

Is a bridge better than an implant?

Neither is better in general. An implant avoids preparing the neighbouring teeth and preserves bone, but requires surgery and sufficient bone. A bridge is quicker and avoids surgery, but relies on the supporting teeth.

How long does a bridge last?

There is no fixed lifespan. It depends on the supporting teeth, gum health, your bite and how well the margins are kept clean.

Does fitting a bridge hurt?

The preparation is carried out under local anaesthetic. Sensitivity afterwards is common and usually settles; tell the treating team if it does not.

Can a bridge be fitted in one trip?

Often yes, but the number of visits and the time required are individual. Your written plan should state this before you book travel.