Dental Bridges: modern solutions and
application prospects
Relevance of dental bridges
Losing even a single tooth leads not only to aesthetic concerns but also to functional problems — bite changes, overload of chewing teeth, speech difficulties, and digestive issues. According to the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), partial tooth loss occurs in more than 45% of adults aged 40–65, and by the age of 70 this rate reaches 70% (EFP, 2021). In the CIS, the situation is even more critical: studies by the Institute of Dentistry, Russian Academy of Sciences show that 60% of patients over 50 have lost at least one tooth, and 25% — three or more in a row. In such cases, dental bridges are the optimal solution, restoring the integrity of the dental arch without complex surgery.
What is a dental bridge and how does it work?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic structure that covers defects in the dental arch and restores chewing function. It consists of several crowns connected together: supporting crowns are fixed to adjacent teeth or implants, and pontics replace the missing units. Modern bridges are designed with patient anatomy and load distribution in mind, ensuring high reliability and comfort. Patients usually perceive them as their own teeth, and the service life of a quality bridge can reach 10–15 years or more.
Indications and contraindications
Dental bridges are indicated in the absence of one to three consecutive teeth, destruction of the dental crown, or contraindications to implant placement. Contraindications include the absence of more than four consecutive teeth, significant mobility of abutment teeth, low crown height, or severe periodontal disease. In such situations, implants or combined prosthetics are preferred. According to a review in the *Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry* (2020), dental bridges show the best outcomes when solid abutments and accurate diagnostics are ensured.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantages of bridges are comfort, short production time (1–2 weeks), affordability, and no need for surgery. Adaptation takes only 2–3 days, and bridges restore both chewing function and smile aesthetics. Their lifespan is 3–4 times longer than removable dentures. The disadvantages are the need for tooth preparation and sometimes devitalization, the impossibility of repair (in case of fracture, the entire bridge must be replaced), and variable aesthetics depending on the material, especially in porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations.
Types of dental bridges
Metal bridges
Cast metal bridges remain a reliable and budget-friendly solution, especially for posterior teeth. They offer high strength and durability but are unsuitable for the front zone due to poor aesthetics. Stamped bridges are outdated and rarely used today.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges
This is one of the most common options. Porcelain-fused-to-metal combines the strength of a metal framework with the aesthetics of porcelain. They last up to 15 years. The drawback is the potential bluish shade at the gum line and allergic reactions to standard alloys.
Metal-free bridges
These include zirconia and ceramic bridges. Zirconia bridges produced with CAD/CAM technology are extremely strong, durable, and aesthetic. Ceramic bridges (such as IPS E.max) are ideal for the anterior region, but they are less resistant and not recommended for the posterior area.
Adhesive and plastic bridges
Adhesive composite bridges are temporary solutions lasting up to 2 years. Their advantage is minimal tooth preparation and good aesthetics. Plastic bridges are also used as temporary replacements during preparation for permanent prostheses. Both types are not intended for long-term wear.
Modern fixation methods
The classic method involves fixing the bridge onto prepared teeth with dental cement. Adhesive techniques use composite bonding with minimal preparation. In complex cases, attachment systems are used, making the bridge partially removable. A modern approach is to place the bridge on implants, eliminating the need to grind adjacent teeth and ensuring high durability.
Stages of installation
The process starts with diagnosis and sanitation. This is followed by the preparation of abutment teeth or implant placement. Impressions or digital scans are taken, and an individual prosthesis is fabricated in the lab. A temporary bridge is fitted first, followed by the permanent restoration. During final fitting, the dentist adjusts shape and color for an ideal match.
Care for dental bridges
Longevity depends on proper hygiene: brushing with soft or medium brushes, fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and using irrigators and interdental brushes. Rinsing after meals and visiting the dentist every 6 months helps maintain the bridge in perfect condition and prevents complications.
Why choose Diplomat Med Center?
At Diplomat Med Center, we provide comprehensive prosthetic solutions. Our specialists offer treatments with crowns, dental bridges, veneers, and implants, including modern All-on-4 and All-on-6 protocols.
Before prosthetic treatment, we carry out complete diagnostics — panoramic imaging, X-rays, CT scans — along with mandatory sanitation: treatment of caries, periodontitis, and professional cleaning.
We use digital CAD/CAM technology to ensure precision and biocompatibility. Diplomat Med Center means experienced doctors, modern materials, and a personalized approach to restoring your smile’s health and aesthetics for years to come.