Medically Reviewed by Dr. Mohit Bodhwani (BDS, MDS - Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics)

Dental Bridges in Mumbai: Types, Process and Who Needs One

A gap where a tooth used to be is more than a cosmetic issue. Neighbouring teeth can drift, the opposite tooth can over-erupt, and chewing becomes uneven. A dental bridge is one of the established ways to close that gap. At The Smile Makers Dental Clinic in Khar West, Mumbai, we plan bridges after a full examination and X-ray, so the choice fits the teeth around the gap.

Written by Dr. Mohit Bodhwani (Endodontist), The Smile Makers Dental Clinic, Khar West, Mumbai.

What is a dental bridge?

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap. Those supporting teeth are called abutments. Once cemented, the bridge stays in place and is not removed at night.

Types of dental bridges

• Traditional bridge: crowns on both neighbouring teeth with a pontic between them. This is the most common type.
• Cantilever bridge: supported by a tooth on one side only. It is used in selected cases where the bite forces are low.
• Resin-bonded bridge: a metal or ceramic wing is bonded behind the neighbouring tooth. It needs less reduction of the tooth, but suits only certain front-tooth gaps.
• Implant-supported bridge: the bridge is anchored on dental implants rather than natural teeth. Read more in our guide to implant versus bridge.

Who needs a dental bridge?

A bridge may be advised if you have lost a tooth through decay, infection, injury or extraction, and the teeth beside the gap are healthy enough to carry crowns. It is also used when an implant is not suitable, for example because of limited bone or medical reasons. Your dentist checks the gum health, bone support and bite before suggesting it.

How the treatment works

• Visit 1: examination, X-ray and discussion of options.
• Visit 2: the supporting teeth are shaped under local anaesthesia and an impression or digital scan is taken. A temporary bridge protects the teeth.
• Visit 3: the final bridge is checked for fit and bite, then cemented.

The number of visits can vary. If a supporting tooth needs a root canal or gum treatment first, that is completed before the bridge.

How long does a bridge last and how to care for it

With good hygiene and regular check-ups, many bridges serve for years, but the lifespan varies from person to person. The area under the pontic needs special cleaning with floss threaders or interdental brushes, because food collects there. Brush twice daily and visit the dentist every six months.

Dental bridge cost in Mumbai

At our clinic a 3-unit bridge starts at Rs 15,000 and goes up to Rs 22,500, depending on the material. These are starting prices. The final cost is confirmed after examination. See the fees page for other treatments, or read about dental bridges at the clinic. Khar West is easy to reach from Bandra and Santacruz.

Frequently asked questions

Is a dental bridge removable?

No. A fixed bridge is cemented onto the supporting teeth and is removed only by the dentist. Removable options are partial dentures.

Does getting a bridge hurt?

The teeth are numbed with local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity or soreness for a few days afterwards is possible. Call us if it persists.

Can I eat normally with a bridge?

Yes. Once the final bridge is cemented you can chew normally. Avoid very hard or sticky foods in the first few days.

Bridge or implant: which is better?

It depends on the neighbouring teeth, the bone and your preference. We examine and explain both options before you decide.

This article is general information based on our clinical experience and is not a substitute for an examination. Every tooth and every patient is different, so outcomes vary and cannot be guaranteed. If you have pain, swelling or fever, please see a dentist.

To book a visit, call +91 98190 39311 or message us on WhatsApp.

The clinic is open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and closed on Sunday. See our fees and our Smile Gallery.