Dental Bridges
Every bridge is covered by our 5-Year Warranty*
Replace missing teeth with a fixed bridge, made to fit and blend in with your smile. Your dentist can replace one or more missing teeth using a bridge supported by your natural teeth. Depending on your teeth, gums and bone, your dentist may also give you the option of dental implants to fill the gap.
*Conditions apply. View warranty terms.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge, sometimes called a tooth bridge, is a fixed way to replace one or more missing teeth.
It “bridges the gap” left by missing teeth by using the teeth next to the gap, called abutment teeth, as anchors. Crowns are placed on the abutment teeth either side of the gap, and the replacement teeth on the bridge, called pontics, are joined to these crowns.
Because it’s fixed in place, a bridge doesn’t come out like a partial denture. It’s made to match the shape and colour of your natural teeth.
When would I need a bridge?
A bridge may be a solution for replacing one or more missing teeth.
Your dentist will talk you through whether a bridge, dental implants or dentures may suit you, based on your teeth, gums and bone.
A bridge may help to
- Restore your smile
- Improve chewing and spread your bite forces evenly
- Stop neighbouring teeth drifting into the gap
- Avoid wearing a partial denture
Types of dental bridges
The right type of bridge depends on where the gap is, how many teeth are missing and the health of the teeth around it.
Traditional bridge
A traditional bridge uses the teeth on both sides of the gap as abutments to support the replacement tooth or teeth. It can replace one or more missing teeth and, when designed well, can be used where chewing forces are higher.
Cantilever bridge
A cantilever bridge may be used to replace a single tooth. It uses only one abutment tooth to support the replacement tooth, so it’s usually limited to areas of the mouth where bite forces are lower.
Maryland bridge
A Maryland bridge is a replacement tooth with small wings on either side, which are bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth. Because the wings sit behind the teeth, little or no shaping of those teeth is usually needed. Maryland bridges are often used to replace a front tooth, and your dentist checks whether your bite and neighbouring teeth suit this option.
Implant-supported bridge
An implant-supported bridge uses dental implants as anchors instead of natural teeth. It may be used where the gap is too large for a traditional bridge, or where there are no suitable teeth to support one. Find out about multiple teeth implants.
What are bridges made of?
The material depends on where the bridge sits, your bite, how many teeth it replaces and how you’d like it to look.
Dental bridges are often made from
- All ceramicA non-metal, tooth-coloured material shade-matched to your teeth.
- Porcelain fused to metalA metal core with a tooth-coloured porcelain outer surface.
- Metal alloyA strong option, often used for back teeth where it’s less visible.
Dental bridge vs implant
Both can replace missing teeth. Which suits you depends on your teeth, gums, bone, health and budget, and your dentist talks you through both.
| Dental bridge | Dental implant | |
|---|---|---|
| Neighbouring teeth | Usually shaped to hold crowns (a Maryland bridge needs little or no shaping) | Not needed, as the implant is placed in the gap |
| Number of visits | Usually two visits, about two weeks apart | Several visits over a few months while the implant heals |
| How long it lasts | Can last many years with good care | Can last many years with good care |
| Bone health | Doesn’t replace the tooth root, so the bone under the gap may shrink over time | Replaces the tooth root, which may help maintain the bone |
| Cost | Usually less upfront | Usually more upfront |
Dentures are a third option, and can replace several missing teeth without shaping the neighbouring teeth. Find out more about dental implants and multiple teeth implants.
Where we offer dental bridges
Our dentists fit bridges at every Avenue Dental practice across the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide.
Dental bridges
Sunshine Coast
Dental bridges at Caloundra, Maroochydore, Bli Bli, Kawana, Baringa, Sippy Downs, Tewantin and Beerwah.
Dental bridges Sunshine Coast →
Dental bridges
Brisbane
Dental bridges at North Lakes, Murrumba Downs and Woolloongabba.
Dental bridges Brisbane →
Dental bridges
Melbourne
Dental bridges at Brunswick.
Dental bridges Melbourne →
Dental bridges
Adelaide
Dental bridges at Fulham Gardens.
Dental bridges Adelaide →
The bridge process
Bridges are usually completed over two visits, up to two weeks apart.
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01
Visit one
Your preparation visit
Your dentist prepares and shapes the tooth or teeth that will support your bridge, then takes moulds so your custom bridge can be made. Your dentist may take photos to help match the shade, or book you an appointment at our dental laboratory. You’ll go home with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth in the meantime.
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While you wait
Up to two weeks
The temporary bridge isn’t as strong as the final one, so it’s important to avoid hard or sticky foods while it’s in place. If it comes loose, give us a call and we’ll look after it.
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02
Visit two
Your second visit
Your dentist removes the temporary bridge and checks the fit and colour of your new bridge before fitting it. Any small adjustments make sure it feels comfortable and natural when you bite.
Every bridge is covered by our 5-Year Warranty*. View warranty terms →
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost of a dental bridge depends on the type of bridge and how many teeth it replaces. Your dentist gives you a personalised quote at your appointment, before you decide anything.
What affects the price
- The type of bridgeTraditional, cantilever, Maryland and implant-supported bridges are priced differently.
- How many teeth it replacesA longer bridge replacing more teeth costs more.
- The materialAll ceramic, porcelain fused to metal and metal alloy are priced differently.
- Work on the supporting teethSome teeth need a filling, root canal or other treatment before the bridge is fitted.
- Your health fund coverWhat you pay depends on whether your extras cover includes major dental.
You’ll get a personalised, written quote at your appointment, before any treatment starts.
Free price guide
Get our Dental Bridge Price Guide
Find out what affects the cost of a bridge and how payment plans work.
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5-Year Warranty* on every bridge we fit.
Health funds
Bridges are usually classed as major dental. If your extras cover includes major dental, your fund may pay part of the cost.
Payment plans
Spread the cost with Humm, Afterpay, Zip or TLC. Approval and terms are assessed by each provider.
5-Year Warranty*
Every bridge is covered by our 5-year warranty for extra peace of mind.
Your quote depends on your treatment plan, which your dentist confirms at your appointment. *Conditions apply. View warranty terms.
Caring for your bridge and how long it lasts
With good care, bridges can last many years, and ours come with a 5-year warranty* for extra peace of mind. The bridge itself can’t decay, but the teeth supporting it can, especially where the bridge meets the gum, so daily cleaning matters.
Looking after your bridge
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Clean under your bridge
Use a floss threader or a water flosser to clean under the replacement tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist can show you how.
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Brush twice a day
Brush around the bridge and along the gumline, paying attention to the supporting teeth.
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Keep your check-ups
Regular check-ups and cleans let your dentist check the bridge and the teeth holding it.
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Protect it if you grind
If you grind or clench, a night guard may help protect your bridge.
Why Avenue Dental for your dental bridge?
Our dentists across the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide take the time to understand your teeth, your bite and what you’re hoping for, then talk you through every option for replacing missing teeth. There’s never any rush or pressure, just honest advice and a plan that suits you.
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5-Year Warranty*
Every bridge we fit is covered by our 5-year warranty.
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Award-Winning Group
Cared for by an experienced, award-winning team.
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Same-day emergency appointments when you call before 10am
Bridge come loose or a tooth broken? Call us before 10am for a same-day emergency appointment.
Flexible payment plans
At Avenue Dental on the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne, we understand that dental treatment can be difficult to fit into your budget, which is why we offer a range of different dental payment plan options.
Dental bridge FAQs
This is general information only. Your dentist can answer your questions at your appointment.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge, sometimes called a tooth bridge, replaces one or more missing teeth. It’s fixed in place using the teeth next to the gap, or dental implants, as anchors, with the replacement tooth joined between them.
Is a dental bridge permanent?
A bridge is fixed in place, so you can’t take it out like a denture. It isn’t designed to last forever, but with good care, bridges can last many years. Your dentist checks it at your regular check-ups.
Can I get a bridge for one tooth?
Yes, often. A traditional bridge can replace a single missing tooth, and a cantilever or Maryland bridge may also suit, depending on your bite and the teeth next to the gap.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
Your dentist numbs the area with local anaesthetic before preparing the supporting teeth, so the area is numb during treatment. Some people notice mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days afterwards.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With good care, bridges can last many years. How long yours lasts depends on the health of the supporting teeth, your bite, and how well you clean under and around the bridge. Every bridge we fit is covered by our 5-year warranty.
Is a bridge or an implant better for me?
It depends on you. A bridge is usually quicker and costs less upfront, but the neighbouring teeth are usually shaped to hold it. An implant doesn’t involve the neighbouring teeth and replaces the tooth root, but takes longer and usually costs more. Your dentist talks you through both based on your teeth, gums, bone and health.
Is my bridge covered by a warranty?
Yes. Every bridge fitted at Avenue Dental is covered by our 5-year warranty. Conditions apply, so please read the warranty terms on our website.
Is a bridge covered by health insurance?
Bridges are usually classed as major dental. If your extras cover includes major dental, your fund may pay part of the cost. Check with your fund, and your dentist can give you item numbers.
Can a bridge be replaced if it gets damaged?
Yes. If a bridge chips, comes loose or is damaged, your dentist can check it and talk you through repairing or replacing it. If it comes loose, keep it somewhere safe and call us. We offer same-day emergency appointments when you call before 10am.
Can a dental bridge be removed?
A fixed bridge can only be removed by your dentist, for example if it needs to be repaired or replaced. You can’t take it out yourself.
What is a Maryland bridge?
A Maryland bridge is a replacement tooth with small wings that are bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth. Little or no shaping of those teeth is usually needed, and it’s often used to replace a front tooth.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost depends on the type of bridge, how many teeth it replaces, the material, and whether the supporting teeth need work first. Your dentist gives you a personalised quote at your appointment, and you can request our Dental Bridge Price Guide.
