Restorative dentistry

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a fixed false tooth held in place by the teeth or implants on either side of a gap. It replaces one or a few missing teeth. A conventional bridge needs the neighbouring teeth shaped for crowns; a resin-bonded bridge needs little or no drilling. A conventional bridge typically takes two to three visits.

Published by Vita Smile Dental Clinic Sources (6)

A ceramic dental restoration beside a tooth model on a blue background

Key takeaways

  • A bridge anchors a false tooth to the natural teeth or implants beside a gap [1].
  • A conventional bridge needs the teeth next to the gap cut down, so it cannot be undone [2]; a resin-bonded bridge needs little or no drilling [1][3].
  • In a review of 19 studies, 89.1% of conventional bridges were still in place after 10 years [4].
  • 82.9% of resin-bonded bridges were in place at 10 years, but coming unstuck was their most common problem [5].
  • Cleaning under the false tooth every day protects the teeth that hold the bridge [1][2].

At a glance

Replaces
One or a few missing teeth
Held by
Neighbouring teeth or implants
Removable
No, fixed in place
Neighbouring teeth
Shaped for a conventional bridge; not reversible
Conventional bridges at 10 years
89.1% still in place
Visits
At least 2; laboratory 1–2 weeks

Clinically reviewed by

Dr. Vildan Aktamış

Prosthodontics & Aesthetic Dentistry · Restorative Dental Care

Last reviewed
Sources 6 sources cited

The basics

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth, called a pontic, to the teeth or implants on either side of the gap [1]. Unlike a denture, it is fixed in place [2]. It helps you chew and speak and stops nearby teeth drifting into the gap [1]. There are four main designs:

  • Conventional bridgeThe teeth next to the gap are shaped and covered with crowns, with the false tooth fixed between them. A dental laboratory makes the bridge, and the dentist then cements it in place [1][2].
  • Cantilever bridgeThe false tooth is held from one side only. In long-term studies it failed more often each year than a bridge supported at both ends, 2.20% against 1.14%, so reviews rank it as a second-choice option [6].
  • Resin-bonded bridge, also called a Maryland bridge: the false tooth is attached to a neighbouring tooth by a metal wing bonded to its back surface, with little or no drilling [1][3]. It usually replaces a single tooth, often at the front [1][3].
  • Implant-supported bridgeThe false teeth are anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth [1], so no healthy tooth is shaped. When every tooth in a jaw needs replacing, see full-mouth dental implants.

Bridges are made from porcelain bonded to metal or from all-ceramic materials [1][2]; our zirconium crowns page covers zirconia in depth.

Is it right for you?

Who is a dental bridge for?

A bridge suits a gap of one or a few teeth when the teeth beside it are strong and healthy, with good bone and gum support [1][2]. Decay and gum disease are treated first, and teeth that have never had a filling are usually not cut down for a conventional bridge [2].

A bridge is a good fit if

  • One tooth, or a short row of teeth, is missing [2]
  • The teeth beside the gap are strong, with good bone and gum support [1]
  • Those teeth already have large fillings: a bridge can reinforce them [2]
  • A single front tooth is missing: a resin-bonded bridge needs little or no drilling [1][3]

Ask us about alternatives if

  • The teeth beside the gap have never been filled: ask about a resin-bonded bridge or a dental implant [2][3]
  • You have active decay or gum disease: it is treated first [2]
  • A tooth has only just been removed: the gum usually needs around 6 months to heal [1]
  • Many teeth are missing: a denture or implants may suit you better [2][3]

Step by step

How a dental bridge is made and fitted

Conventional and resin-bonded bridges both typically take two to three visits [2][3], with X-rays at the start to check the supporting teeth [2].

  1. Before you travel

    Online consultation

    Send photos or a recent X-ray. A dentist reviews them and replies with a personalised plan; the written quote is confirmed after your examination.

  2. First visit

    Examination and X-rays

    X-rays check the teeth that will hold the bridge, and any decay or gum disease is treated first [2]. Your dentist explains which type suits the gap.

  3. First visit

    Shaping and impressions

    The area is numbed, the teeth next to the gap are shaped, an impression or scan is taken and the shade is chosen [2]. A resin-bonded bridge needs little or no shaping [3].

  4. Between visits

    Temporary bridge and laboratory work

    A temporary bridge protects the shaped teeth [2] while a dental laboratory makes your bridge [1].

  5. Second visit

    Try-in and fitting

    The bridge is tried in for fit and appearance, cemented, and your bite adjusted [2].

  6. At home

    Aftercare

    Clean under the false tooth every day with special floss or interdental brushes, and keep your check-ups [1][2].

The number of visits and the time between them depend on your treatment plan; your dentist confirms them after examining you.

Find out which option suits your gap

Send a few photos or a recent X-ray. A dentist reviews them and replies with a personalised plan, free of charge; the written quote is confirmed after your examination.

Book a free online consultation Ask on WhatsApp

Compare your options

Bridge or implant? Four fixed options compared

All four give you a fixed tooth; they differ in what holds it and what happens to the teeth beside the gap. In 10-year studies, resin-bonded bridges failed more often each year than the other three [6].

Conventional bridge Resin-bonded bridge Implant-supported bridge Single implants
What holds it Crowns on the teeth either side A metal wing bonded to a neighbouring tooth Two or more implants One implant for each missing tooth
Teeth beside the gap Cut down; not reversible Little or no drilling; reversible Left untouched Left untouched
Surgery No No Yes, to place the implants Yes, to place each implant
Typical use One or a few missing teeth Usually one missing tooth, often at the front Several missing teeth in a row One or more gaps, tooth by tooth
Failures per year in 10-year studies 1.14% 4.31% 1.43% 1.12%

Yearly failure rates: an analysis of six systematic reviews, studies with 10 years of follow-up [6]. A newer review of resin-bonded bridges found 91.4% in place at 5 years and 82.9% at 10 years, with better results for zirconia frameworks and single-wing designs [5].

Before you decide

Risks, lifespan and care of dental bridges

In a review of 19 studies, 89.1% of conventional bridges were still in place after 10 years [4]. The trade-offs to know before you choose:

  • Not reversible: a conventional bridge needs the supporting teeth cut down, so they will always need a covering [2].
  • The nerve of a supporting tooth: it can become inflamed and die over time, which then needs root canal treatment or an extraction [2].
  • Decay at the supporting teeth: over 10 years, 2.6% of conventional bridges were lost because of decay [4]. Cleaning under the false tooth every day helps protect them [1].
  • Coming loose: 6.4% of conventional bridges lost retention within 10 years [4]. Resin-bonded bridges came unstuck more often, 15% within 5 years [5]; if one comes off, keep it, as it can often be re-cemented [3].
  • Fractures: porcelain can chip [2]; over 10 years, 3.2% of conventional bridges had a material fracture [4].
  • Sensitivity and bite: the teeth may feel sensitive at first, which should settle [2]; a resin-bonded bridge can make the bite feel different for a few weeks [3].

  • 89.1%

    of conventional bridges still in place after 10 years [4]

  • 82.9%

    of resin-bonded bridges still in place after 10 years [5]

  • 15%

    of resin-bonded bridges came unstuck within 5 years [5]

Dr. Vildan Aktamış

From our dentist

“A gap can be closed well in more than one way, and the neighbouring teeth usually choose for us. Teeth that already carry large fillings or crowns can be restored and joined in one bridge. Untouched teeth make me hesitate before shaping healthy enamel, so we weigh a resin-bonded bridge or an implant. Whatever we choose, I show you how to clean under the false tooth with floss or a small brush, because a bridge is only as healthy as the teeth that hold it.”

Dr. Vildan Aktamış · Prosthodontics & Aesthetic Dentistry · Restorative Dental Care

Treatment abroad

Choosing a clinic in Turkey for a dental bridge

Whether you have it in Istanbul or at home, a bridge needs X-rays of the supporting teeth, a clear reason for the type chosen, and time for the gum to heal after an extraction [1][2]. Worth asking before you book:

  • Why a bridge for my gap, rather than an implant or a resin-bonded bridge?
  • Are the teeth on either side healthy enough to carry it, and what do my X-rays show?
  • Which material is planned, and is it named in my written quote?
  • What happens if the bridge comes loose once I am home?

Bridges at Vita Smile are planned by Dr. Vildan Aktamış, a general dentist who focuses on prosthodontics and who reviewed this page; the material for your case is named in your written quote. For your own plan, start with a free online consultation.

Questions

Dental bridges: frequently asked questions

Can't find your answer? Our coordinators are happy to help on WhatsApp.

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How much does a dental bridge cost in Turkey?

It depends on the type of bridge, the number of teeth and the materials [1]. After a free online assessment you receive a personalised plan; the written quote is confirmed after your examination. A conventional bridge is built from crowns: see crown prices and packages.

Is a dental bridge better than an implant?

Neither is better for everyone: in 10-year studies, conventional bridges and single implant crowns failed at similar yearly rates, 1.14% and 1.12% [6]. A bridge needs no surgery but means shaping the teeth beside the gap [2]; an implant leaves them untouched but needs enough bone and time to heal.

How long does a dental bridge last?

If looked after well, a conventional bridge can last over 10 years [2]. In reviews, 89.1% of conventional and 82.9% of resin-bonded bridges were still in place at 10 years [4][5].

Is a dental bridge permanent?

Yes, in the sense that you cannot take it out, unlike a denture, and shaping the teeth for a conventional bridge cannot be undone [2]. A resin-bonded bridge is reversible: if it comes off, the tooth underneath is not damaged [3].

How do you clean under a dental bridge?

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean under the false tooth every day with special floss or interdental brushes [1][2]. Your dentist or hygienist can show you how to clean your bridge [1].

Can a bridge be fitted right after an extraction?

Usually not. The gum needs time to heal after an extraction, which can take around 6 months, and you may be offered a temporary tooth meanwhile [1]. If you are travelling, plan the timing with your dentist.

What our patients say

Read what our patients say about us on Google and Trustpilot.

Patient reviews from Google and Trustpilot

Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

I visited Vita Smile Dental Clinic for implants and a smile makeover, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Dr. Vildan and her team were warm, knowledgeable, and extremely detail-oriented. The clinic itself is spotless and modern, and they made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. They even helped with transportation and accommodation, which made the whole experience stress-free. My new smile looks amazing — I feel more confident than ever. If you're thinking about dental treatment in Turkey, Vita Smile is a fantastic choice. Thank you for everything!

Fuat D. August 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

First of all, the dentist is very reliable and professional. The clinic has a very friendly atmosphere, and both the service and approach to patients are of the highest standard – everything is handled professionally. The dentist is extremely professional and gentle in her work. She always asks if anything hurts and makes sure the patient feels comfortable during every visit. Special recognition also goes to the consultant Rafia, who always responds quickly to any questions or concerns. She is very helpful, kind, and always tries to find a solution and speak with patients with care and understanding. The clinic is very clean, and every patient is treated individually and with full attention. I wholeheartedly recommend this dental clinic.

Elwira K.
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

We were in a medical trip to Turkey, headed to Vita Smile. Everything went smooth -from airport to clinic and back home-. The procedure was seamless, as for me I regained trusts in myself now that I can smile again. Also lots of thanks to ms.Oana for everything.

Stephen Romania · April 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

The team and doctors are very professional, I am very pleased to have had my teeth whitened and cleaned, I recommend it to everyone. Thank you

Rumeysa Y.
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

I visited Vita smile for my tooth pain. Dr Vildan and all team was so helpfull. They gave me teeth cleaning for free as a present. I suggest it to all my friends. Thanks for all.

Mehmet F. August 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

Diş için geldim. Diş ile ilgili bütün sorunlarimi hallettiler ve çok güzel oldu çok ilgililer.

Oğuzhan F. August 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

yeni zirkonyum yaptırdım çok memnun kaldım, hekimin eli çok hafifti gerçekten. gülümsemek 🤩

June 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

Temiz ve rahat bir ortamda operasyon um yapildi.Doktorlara ilgilerinden dolayı teşekkür ederim. Yapılan işlemler beni çok mutlu ve özgüvenli hissettirdi. Tüm ekibe TESEKKUR ederim.

Ulas K. March 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Trustpilot — Trustpilot review

Almanya'daki bir tanıdığımız vaasitasi ile alakalı geldim 1 hafta içerisinde full ağız implant ve lamine tedavilerini yaptirdim doktor ekip tamamı ile kusursuz kesinlikle tavsiye ediyorum

Volkan S. March 2025
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

Daha önce olan diş kaplamalarım inanınlmaz rahatsız ediyordu zirkonyum kaplama için arkadaşımın tavsiyesiyle gittim 3-4 gün gibi bir sürede eski kaplamalar sökülüp yeni ölçüler alındı provalar yapıldı ve yeni kaplamalar yapıldı çok doğal ve çok kullanımı rahat hiçbir sıkıntı yaşamadım tüm ekibe teşekür ederim.

Mine A.
Rated 5 out of 5 Google — Google review

"Gülüşümü tamamen değiştirdiler! Zirkonyum kaplamalarım o kadar doğal duruyor ki, kimse kaplama olduğunu anlamıyor. Renk uyumu ve diş etleriyle olan uyumu tek kelimeyle mükemmel. Estetik kaygısı olan herkese gözü kapalı öneririm."

Ali A.
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Sources

Studies and patient guides this page is based on.

  1. [1] Dental bridges — Oral Health Foundation (updated 17 April 2026) · dentalhealth.org
  2. [2] Conventional dental bridges — patient information, Bristol Dental School, University of Bristol · bristol.ac.uk
  3. [3] Resin-bonded bridges — patient information, Bristol Dental School, University of Bristol · bristol.ac.uk
  4. [4] Tan K, Pjetursson BE, Lang NP, Chan ES. A systematic review of the survival and complication rates of fixed partial dentures (FPDs) after an observation period of at least 5 years. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 2004 · doi.org
  5. [5] Thoma DS, Sailer I, Ioannidis A, Zwahlen M, Makarov N, Pjetursson BE. A systematic review of the survival and complication rates of resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses after a mean observation period of at least 5 years. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 2017 · doi.org
  6. [6] Pjetursson BE, Zwahlen M, Lang NP. Quality of reporting of clinical studies to assess and compare performance of implant-supported restorations. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 2012 (analysis of six systematic reviews of tooth- and implant-supported restorations) · doi.org