You're missing a tooth. Maybe two. The gap is starting to affect how you chew — and how you feel when you smile in photographs.

Your dentist has mentioned a bridge. You've heard of them. But you're not sure what one actually is, what it costs, or whether it's the right choice compared to an implant or a denture.

That confusion is understandable. Let's clear it up.

A bridge does exactly what its name suggests — it bridges the gap where a tooth is missing. It uses the teeth on either side of the gap as anchors, called abutments. A prosthetic tooth — or multiple teeth — called a pontic sits in the space between them.

The bridge is cemented permanently to the adjacent natural teeth. It does not come out. Once it's placed, it functions like your natural teeth.

Traditional bridge. The most common type. A crown is placed on each tooth adjacent to the gap, with the pontic between them. Best when you have strong, healthy teeth on both sides of the gap.

Cantilever bridge. Used when there is only one tooth next to the gap. The pontic is supported on one side only. Less common and generally used in areas of the mouth that don't take heavy chewing force.

Maryland bridge. A metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth — no crowns needed. More conservative but less strong. Usually used for front teeth or temporary situations.

An implant replaces the root as well as the crown. It does not affect adjacent teeth. It helps preserve the jawbone. It is generally the gold standard where bone quality allows.

A bridge requires the adjacent teeth to be shaved down and crowned — even if they are perfectly healthy. It does nothing for the bone beneath the gap — the bone will still shrink over time.

But a bridge can be placed faster than an implant. It costs less upfront. It requires no bone graft if bone has already been lost. And if the adjacent teeth already need crowns anyway, a bridge can solve two problems at once.

Neither is automatically better. Your dentist considers the condition of your adjacent teeth, your bone, your budget, and your overall health before recommending one.

A traditional three-unit bridge in the UK typically costs between £1,500 and £3,500 or more, depending on the materials used, the complexity of the case, and where you live. Private treatment in the South East tends to be at the higher end of that range.

The final cost depends on how many teeth are being replaced, whether the anchoring teeth need work done first, and the material chosen (porcelain, zirconia, metal-ceramic).

Your dentist will give you a written treatment plan with a clear breakdown before any work begins.

A well-maintained bridge can last 10 to 15 years. Some last longer. The lifespan depends on the health of the supporting teeth and the quality of your oral hygiene.

The most common reason bridges fail is decay or gum disease affecting the anchoring teeth. The bridge creates a trap for food and plaque — and if cleaning around it is neglected, the supporting teeth develop problems beneath the crowns.

Floss threaders, interdental brushes, and water flossers are essential for bridge care. Your dentist or hygienist will show you exactly how to use them.

• Pain or sensitivity in the anchoring teeth
• A crack or chip in the pontic or the crowns
• Food packing beneath the bridge
• Movement or looseness in any part of the bridge
• Gum redness or bleeding around the supporting teeth

Any of these mean book an appointment. Do not wait for pain to arrive before acting.

Missing teeth affect more than your smile. They change how you chew, how your other teeth shift, and how your jawbone ages.

At Meads Village Dental Practice, we assess every gap carefully and give you an honest recommendation — whether that's a bridge, an implant, or another solution. No pressure. No rushed decisions.

Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com