Dental bridge treatment | Types, procedures & costs in Turkey

Dental bridge: Choosing the material

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic solution designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of pontics (artificial teeth) securely attached to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants and is an effective alternative to removable dentures.

This treatment is designed for patients who have lost a tooth due to extraction, trauma, or congenital malformation (dental agenesis). It restores the chewing function and the aesthetics of the smile and prevents the displacement of the adjacent teeth.

The choice of material is an essential criterion that influences the durability, strength, and aesthetic appearance of the dental bridge. There are three main types:

• Metal bridge: Made of metal alloy, it offers great strength and is often used for posterior teeth. However, its unattractive appearance limits its use to inconspicuous areas.
• Metal-ceramic bridge: This bridge combines strength and aesthetics, blending harmoniously with the natural dentition. It consists of a metal structure covered with ceramic.
• 100% ceramic bridge: Made entirely of ceramics, this bridge offers optimal aesthetics, close to natural teeth, and is particularly suitable for anterior teeth.

The choice of material depends on the patient's needs, the location of the prosthesis, and the dentist's recommendations. A personalized evaluation allows you to choose the best option for a smile that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Types of dental bridges

There are several types of dental bridges available in our clinics in Turkey. These dental bridges are classified according to the technique used to secure them:

Diagnosis and personalized planning

The installation of a dental bridge begins with a consultation with the dentist, during which a thorough examination is performed. This first step is essential to assess the condition of the teeth and surrounding tissues.

Using panoramic x-rays and other imaging tests, the dentist analyzes the oral structure to detect any complications and ensure appropriate treatment. Based on these observations, the dentist selects the most appropriate type of dental bridge (traditional, cantilever or Maryland) to ensure a perfect fit and optimal function.

Dental bridge installation process in Turkey

The dental bridge installation process in Turkey includes the following steps:

Preparation of abutment teeth

Adjacent teeth, called abutment teeth, are prepared to receive the dental bridge. A thin layer of enamel is removed to make room for the crowns that will support the structure. This step is done with great precision to ensure a perfect fit and optimal strength.

High-precision impressions

A detailed impression of the area is taken to design a bridge that perfectly matches the patient's dentition. Two methods are used:

Traditional impression, made with a special material to capture every detail of the tooth structure.
Digital impression, taken with an intra-oral scanner, for maximum precision and significant time savings.

Bridge design and fabrication

The impression is then sent to the dental laboratory where experts fabricate the dental bridge using high quality materials such as ceramic or zirconium. Advanced technologies such as Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing speed up the process and ensure a precise fit and a natural aesthetic appearance.

Bridge fitting and adjustments

An initial try-in is performed to test the comfort, color, and alignment of the dental bridge. If necessary, adjustments are made to ensure perfect integration with the natural teeth. A temporary denture may be placed to protect the teeth until the final fitting.

Final cementation and bite check

Once the adjustments have been validated, the dental bridge is permanently cemented in place with high-strength dental cement. The dentist will then check the occlusion (how the teeth align when you chew) to make sure there is no discomfort or excessive pressure on adjacent teeth.

Benefits of dental bridges

Dental bridges offer numerous functional and aesthetic benefits that contribute significantly to oral health. They guarantee:

• A natural, harmonious aesthetic result: Dental bridges are designed to perfectly match the color and shape of natural teeth, providing a natural visual result.
• Restoration of chewing and speech functions: by filling the space left by missing teeth, dental bridges facilitate chewing and speech.
• Prevent tooth misalignment: Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting and maintains the natural alignment of teeth.
• Fast, long-lasting alternative: Dental bridges do not require surgery and can last for many years with proper care.

Disadvantages to consider

Despite their many advantages, dental bridges also have some disadvantages that should be considered before deciding to proceed with this prosthetic solution:

• Modification of abutment teeth: To ensure an optimal fit, dental bridges rest on abutment teeth, which must be prepared. This process involves grinding away the enamel, which can lead to increased sensitivity and reduced natural strength.
• Risk of tooth sensitivity: After a bridge is placed, it's common to experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold foods. If this discomfort persists, it may indicate a problem with the fit or alteration of the abutment teeth, requiring corrective action.
• Susceptibility to decay and plaque buildup: Dental bridges can create areas that are difficult to reach when brushing, which encourages the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Over time, this can lead to decay on the abutment teeth, requiring additional dental care and compromising the stability of the bridge.
• Limited lifespan: Although dental bridges are designed to last many years, their lifespan is generally shorter than that of dental implants. Over time, material wear and changes in the patient's dental structure may require replacement, resulting in additional costs.
• Higher cost for implant-supported bridges: Although more stable and durable, implant-supported bridges require surgery and are a larger investment.