Bridges

• Proven Solution: Ceramic bridges on a metal framework are a classic prosthetic method that combines the aesthetics of ceramics with the durability of metal. The metal framework (usually steel or gold) provides a strong foundation, onto which a layer of ceramic is applied, imitating natural teeth.

• Durability and Strength: The metal framework provides outstanding mechanical strength, making these bridges ideal for areas exposed to heavy chewing forces, such as the molars.

• Aesthetics: The ceramic layer fully covers the metal base, creating a natural tooth appearance. When gold is used as a base, an even better colour effect can be achieved, especially near the gums.

• Versatility of Materials: The metal framework can be made of stainless steel, cobalt-chromium alloys, or gold, which further enhances biocompatibility and aesthetics.

• Affordable Price: Ceramic bridges on a metal framework are often more cost-effective compared to zirconium-based solutions, making them a popular choice for patients seeking durability and affordability.

• Custom Fit: Each bridge is precisely designed to perfectly fit the patient’s bite, ensuring comfort and a natural smile.

• Combination of Aesthetics and Strength: Ceramic bridges on a zirconia framework are an advanced prosthetic solution that combines the exceptional aesthetics of ceramics with the outstanding durability of zirconium oxide. The zirconia base provides a robust foundation for the ceramic layer, which closely resembles natural teeth.

• Biocompatibility: Zirconium oxide is a fully biocompatible material, meaning it does not cause allergic reactions or irritations. This makes zirconia-based bridges ideal for patients with metal sensitivities.

• Natural Appearance: The translucency of the ceramic combined with the white colour of zirconia allows these bridges to closely mimic natural teeth in terms of colour, texture, and light reflection.

• Strength for Heavy Loads: Zirconia is one of the most durable materials used in prosthetics, making ceramic bridges on a zirconia framework suitable for molar restorations, where high bite forces occur.

• Custom Fit: These bridges are designed with high precision to ensure a perfect fit and aesthetic harmony with the patient’s natural teeth.

• Modern and Aesthetic: Full-ceramic bridges are prosthetic solutions made entirely of ceramics, without a metal core. As a result, they perfectly mimic natural teeth in terms of colour, translucency, and texture.

• Biocompatibility: Ceramic is a fully biocompatible material, making full-ceramic bridges safe for oral tissues and minimizing the risk of allergic reactions.

• Durability and Strength: Thanks to modern technologies, contemporary ceramics are remarkably strong, making full-ceramic bridges suitable even for areas exposed to high chewing forces, such as molars.

• Aesthetic Tooth Replacement: Thanks to their properties, full-ceramic bridges are almost indistinguishable from natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for restorations in visible aesthetic zones.

• Custom Fit: Full-ceramic bridges are designed with the patient’s individual needs in mind, allowing for the perfect shape, colour, and integration with the existing teeth.

Advantages of Dental Bridges:

• Aesthetics – Bridges, especially those based on ceramic and zirconia, look very natural and blend perfectly with the remaining teeth.
• Durability and Stability – Bridges are fixed prosthetic solutions, meaning they do not need to be removed like dentures. When properly made, they are resistant to damage.
• Restoration of Bite Function – Bridges restore full dental function, allowing normal chewing and biting.
• User Comfort – Compared to removable dentures, bridges are more comfortable as they do not need to be taken out and reinserted, making them both convenient and hygienic.

Disadvantages of Dental Bridges:

• Invasiveness – Traditional bridges require the grinding of healthy abutment teeth, which alters their structure.
• Cost – Bridges, especially those made from zirconia or ceramic, can be expensive, particularly for longer bridges replacing multiple missing teeth. The cost increases with the number of missing teeth and required abutments.
• Need for Proper Hygiene – To maintain the longevity of bridges, proper oral hygiene is essential, especially around the abutments and bridge attachment sites, just like natural teeth.
• Potential Risk of Damage – Although bridges are durable, they may suffer wear and tear over time, particularly if oral health is neglected. In rare cases, they may become loose or experience ceramic chipping.

Indications for the Use of Dental Bridges:

Dental bridges are recommended in cases of:

• Single or multiple missing teeth – When a patient has one or more missing teeth in a row and wants to avoid implants or removable dentures.
• Damaged or severely decayed teeth – When teeth are extensively damaged by decay, trauma, or root canal treatment and cannot be restored with traditional fillings or other prosthetic solutions.
• Weakened or incomplete teeth – In cases where teeth have lost a significant portion of their structure and require restoration.
• Smile aesthetics – Bridges are often used to improve the appearance of teeth, especially in cases of missing front teeth.

Contraindications for the Use of Dental Bridges:

Dental bridges may not be suitable in the following cases:

• Lack of sufficient healthy abutment teeth – Bridges require strong and healthy supporting teeth. If these are absent, implants or removable dentures may be necessary.
• Periodontal disease or gum problems – If gum disease (e.g. periodontitis) is left untreated, placing a bridge can cause further complications with the supporting teeth.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding) – Patients suffering from bruxism, which can lead to excessive tooth wear, may struggle to maintain a bridge in good condition.