A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) replacement for one or more missing teeth. It works by anchoring artificial teeth to your existing natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. The supporting teeth are called “abutments” and the replacement tooth (or teeth) in the middle is called a “pontic.”
Once cemented in place, a bridge looks, feels, and functions much like your natural teeth. You do not take it in and out.
Traditional bridge
The most common type. Crowns are placed over the teeth on both sides of the gap, with a false tooth connected between them. This requires preparing (reshaping) both supporting teeth.
Resin-bonded bridge
Instead of full crowns, thin metal or ceramic "wings" are bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth. This requires minimal or no preparation of the supporting teeth, making it a more conservative option. It is most commonly used for a single missing front tooth.
Implant-supported bridge
Rather than relying on natural teeth for support, this type of bridge is anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. See our page on Dental Implants for more information.
A bridge restores your ability to chew and speak comfortably
It maintains the shape of your face and smile
It prevents remaining teeth from drifting out of position
It is fixed in place, so there is nothing to remove or reinsert
Treatment is typically completed in two to three appointments
Generally more affordable than dental implants
No surgery is required (for tooth-supported bridges)
The supporting teeth must usually be reshaped and crowned, which involves removing healthy tooth structure
If the supporting teeth develop problems (decay, fracture, gum disease), the entire bridge may need to be replaced
May not last as long in comparison to dental implants
The area underneath the false tooth requires special cleaning (such as floss threaders, interdental brushes or waterflossers)
Bone loss in the jawbone beneath the missing tooth may continue over time, as the bridge does not stimulate the bone the way an implant does
An implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone by surgery. Once healed, a crown is attached on top. Implants do not require any preparation of neighbouring teeth and help preserve the jawbone. Implants generally cost more and require a surgical procedure with a longer overall treatment time (several months for healing). They may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions or insufficient bone.
A partial denture is a removable plate with replacement teeth attached. It clips onto your remaining teeth and is taken out for cleaning. Partial dentures are generally the most affordable option and often do not require preparation of neighbouring teeth. However, they can feel bulky, may move during eating or speaking, and typically do not restore chewing function as effectively as a fixed bridge or implant. They require daily removal and cleaning.
The best choice depends on several factors, including:
The number and location of missing teeth
The health of your remaining teeth and gums
The condition of your jawbone
Your overall health
Your budget and preferences
Our MedCentral Dental dentists will discuss which options are most suitable for your individual situation.
WESTFIELD KNOX
Westfield Knox Shopping Centre (Walk through from Priceline Pharmacy or MedCentral Knox) 1060/425 Burwood Hwy Wantirna South VIC 3152
OPENING HOURS
Weekdays: 9am to 5pm
Open Saturday: 9am to 3pm
Principal Dentist
Speaks English and Vietnamese
Born and raised in Melbourne, Dr Raymond has spent several years working across both private and public practices in metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria. This diverse experience has strengthened his ability to connect with individuals and families from all walks of life, allowing him to deliver care that feels both personalised and accessible.
With a strong focus on family dentistry, Dr Raymond is experienced in both general and cosmetic dentistry, supporting patients at every stage of life. He is particularly proficient in wisdom teeth extractions, and has a special interest in clear aligner treatment and smile makeovers – including porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.
Known for his calm and reassuring manner, Dr Raymond is especially attentive to patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. He creates a relaxed, supportive environment designed to ease concerns and build trust over time. His goal is to make every appointment a positive experience and believes that visiting the dentist should feel comfortable, not confronting.
Outside the practice, he enjoys travelling, playing tennis, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Dr Emily was born in Melbourne and was raised in the local Knox area. She previously worked in private practices across Melbourne, and has worked for the public sector at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne.
She also gained a significant amount of experience working previously as the Hospital Dental Officer at Monash Medical Centre where she treated medically compromised, special needs and cancer patients.
She enjoys most aspects of dentistry including cosmetic dentistry and working with children. She has a special interest in the area of orthodontics (braces, clear aligners and early intervention) and can provide Myobrace treatment.
Dr Emily is currently undergoing a Post Graduate Diploma in Orthodontics to further her passion in this area.
She loves helping her patients with clear aligner treatment so that they can smile confidently.
In her spare time, Dr Emily enjoys going out for good food, spending time with family and going on nature walks with her dog Chino.
Dr Lilian Phu graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Biomedicine (Honours) and Doctor of Dental Surgery. Her passion for helping people achieve their dental and oral health goals is reflected by the quality, care and attention she gives to each patient she encounters. Additionally, her friendly and bubbly nature will be sure to bring a smile on anyone’s face.
Dr Lilian is also a preclinical supervisor for dental students at Melbourne University, sharing her knowledge with the future generation of dentists.
In order to deliver the best dental care to her patients, she regularly attends continuing education courses and is currently undertaking a two-year postgraduate course in orthodontics. Dr Lilian has a special interest in implants and clear aligner treatment, and can talk to you about how you can improve your smile.
Outside of dentistry, she enjoys digital drawing and spending time with her loved ones including a dog and three cats.
Speaks English
Edward is a kind and caring dentist who is dedicated to providing his patients with high quality dental care while prioritizing patient comfort to ensure that his patients have a positive experience.
Edward believes in taking a more patient-centered approach to dental care, whether it be by providing information to patients about prevention of dental disease, or by providing and explaining all available treatment options so that patients can be fully informed about their oral healthcare.
Outside of work, you’ll find Edward playing volleyball or in the kitchen as he enjoys cooking dishes from many different cuisines from around the world.
