A dental bridge closes the gap left by a missing tooth and is supported by the neighbouring teeth. It makes particular sense when these neighbouring teeth already have crowns or large fillings, or when an implant is not an option. If the neighbouring teeth are healthy, an implant or, for a front tooth, an adhesive bridge is often gentler, because the healthy teeth stay almost or completely untouched. Our bridges are made of metal-free ceramic. At your consultation we show you which path suits you, with the effort and time involved.
Updated: 9 November 2026
How a bridge is built
A classic bridge consists of crowns on the two neighbouring teeth, the abutment teeth, and the replacement tooth in between, the pontic. To make room for the crowns, the abutment teeth are prepared. That costs healthy tooth structure, which is why it is mainly worthwhile when these teeth need a crown anyway.
Three ways to close a gap
| Bridge | Adhesive bridge | Implant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neighbouring teeth | prepared for crowns | a narrow wing on the back, little tooth structure | stay untouched |
| Procedure | no surgery | no surgery | a small surgical procedure |
| Until the final tooth | a few weeks | a few weeks | several months, because the implant heals in |
| Particularly suitable | when the neighbouring teeth already have restorations | for a missing front tooth with healthy neighbours | with healthy neighbouring teeth and enough bone |
Why it is worth closing a gap
A gap is about more than appearance. Over time, the neighbouring teeth can tilt into the gap, and the opposing tooth can drift. Many people switch to chewing on the other side and put more strain on it. With the gap closed, you chew on both sides again, securely and without worry.
How your bridge is made
- Examine and plan. With digital X-rays and under magnification. You see on screen what we see and receive a written treatment plan.
- Prepare gently. So that as much healthy tooth structure as possible is preserved, under local anaesthetic and at your pace.
- Take a digital impression. A scan replaces the impression. The ceramic is individually made, matching your neighbouring teeth in shape and colour. Until it is fitted, a temporary bridge protects the area if needed.
- Fit and check. The bridge is permanently attached and finely adjusted. At a check-up we check your bite and the fit.
How long does a bridge last?
With good care and regular check-ups, ceramic restorations usually last many years, often ten years or longer. What matters is a tight edge, a balanced bite and care at home. Under the pontic, you clean with interdental brushes or a special floss. We show you how at your dental hygiene appointment. If you grind at night, a splint protects the ceramic.
