Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Bridges in Fremantle for Tooth Replacement
What we do?
Understanding Dental Bridges: In-Place Tooth Replacement Options
When a tooth goes missing, surrounding teeth may drift, and everyday tasks such as eating or speaking may become difficult. A dental bridge replaces the space with one or more artificial teeth, supported by crowns on neighbouring teeth or implants, helping maintain bite alignment and the surrounding structures.
At On Point Dental, we review your oral health during a consultation to decide whether this tooth restoration meets your needs. Bridges are crafted to blend with your existing teeth and can provide a stable, long-term option with care. The dental bridge procedure includes preparing the supporting teeth, taking impressions, and fitting a custom-made bridge for function and appearance.
RIGHT CANDIDATE
Who Might Be Suitable for Dental Bridges
Dental bridges may suit people who have lost one or more teeth and seek a fixed tooth replacement in Fremantle. Candidates often include those with healthy teeth on either side of the gap or sufficient bone for implant-supported bridges.
During a consultation, your dentist will assess factors such as gum health, bite alignment, and the condition of supporting teeth. If supporting teeth are weak or gum disease is present, your dental team may recommend alternative treatments.
Benefits
What Benefits Might Dental Bridges Offer for Patients?
Bridges are fixed in place and do not require removal for cleaning like dentures. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, bridges offer a stable tooth restoration option for suitable candidates.
OUR SMILE GALLERY
Examples of Our Dental Work
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
Why Choose On Point Dental for Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental crowns restore both the function and appearance of damaged teeth. Here are some reasons why patients trust On Point Dental for crown treatment.
Personalised Treatment Planning
We take time to understand your goals and assess your oral health before recommending cosmetic options. Using digital tools to preview potential outcomes, we help you make well-informed decisions about available treatments. Plans are tailored to your needs and budget, so your cosmetic care is approached thoughtfully with attention to both functional and aesthetic considerations.
Range of Cosmetic Options
We offer cosmetic treatments including whitening, veneers, crowns and Invisalign. Having these options available in one clinic supports coordinated planning when more than one procedure is needed. This approach helps maintain consistency across each stage of care, allowing your cosmetic treatment to progress in a familiar setting with practitioners who already understand your overall oral health.
Flexible Payment Options Available
To support accessibility, we offer payment plan options with weekly repayments, quick approvals and interest-free periods. These arrangements can help patients manage costs across multiple appointments. Terms and conditions apply, including eligibility assessments and third-party finance approval, where relevant. Our team can explain available options so you can choose a structure that suits your budget.
New Patient Special Offer
$299
Dental Package Available for New Patients: Complete Preventive Care Services in One Appointment
*New patients only. Cannot be combined with insurance claims.
See full terms and conditions.
HEALTH FUNDS & PAYMENT OPTIONS
Quality Dental Care that Fits Your Budget
We work with major health funds and offer flexible payment options to help make dental care more accessible and manageable for our patients.
HBF Member Plus Preferred Provider
- Eligible HBF Member Plus members can receive reduced gap payments on many dental services.
- We process your health fund claim on the spot, and you’ll pay only the gap amount.
- Our team can check your cover and provide an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
- Being a preferred provider means we meet HBF's quality and service standards, giving you added security in your care.
NIB First Choice Preferred Provider
- NIB First Choice members may receive higher benefits and lower gap payments when they visit our clinic.
- We submit your claim directly to NIB, making the process straightforward and reducing paperwork for you.
- Our reception team can explain your NIB benefits and help you understand what's included in your cover.
- We're committed to transparent pricing, so you'll know your expected costs before we start any treatment.
Flexible Payment Plans Available
Fund My Dental
YOUR FIRST VISIT
What to Expect When You Visit
On Point Dental
Schedule Your Visit
We Check: Teeth, gums, jaw joints, oral cancer screening, bite alignment, existing dental work
Fill Out Your Patient Forms
What to Bring: Health fund card, Medicare card (if applicable), list of current medications
Detailed Oral Assessment
We Check: Teeth, gums, jaw joints, oral cancer screening, bite alignment, existing dental work
Treatment Plan Discussion
Transparent Pricing: All costs explained upfront, payment plans available, health fund rebates calculated.
Begin Your Dental Care
Ongoing Care: Regular check-ups every 6 months, reminders sent, family appointments coordinated
THE TEAM
Our Friendly Team - Meet The Faces Behind Your Smile
Our dental team brings diverse training and experience to provide quality care, and they’re supported by our skilled dental assistants and administrative team, who help make your visit run smoothly.
Credentials
Credentials
Credentials
Dr Ahlawat is a certified Invisalign provider with experience across multiple countries, offering cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic treatment, and supportive care for patients who feel anxious about dental visits.
Credentials
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you may have questions about dental bridges and what to expect. Here are answers to common questions from patients seeking tooth replacement in Fremantle.
Important Information: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding with dental bridge procedures, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
What is a dental bridge, and how does it work?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally bridging the gap between remaining teeth.
The bridge consists of two main components:
The pontic is the artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills the space left by the missing tooth.
- The supporting crowns are placed over the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
- These natural teeth, called abutment teeth, anchor the bridge securely. The bridge is custom-made in a dental laboratory to match the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth. Once cemented into position, it becomes a part of your mouth.
The bridge is designed to help restore your ability to chew and maintain your facial shape. It is designed to help maintain tooth position and may improve the appearance of your smile. Individual outcomes vary.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
The dental bridge procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort during care. Individual experiences may vary.
What to expect after the procedure:
After the anaesthesia wears off, it’s common to experience some mild sensitivity or tenderness in the treated area. This is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and typically subsides within a few days. Your gums may also feel slightly tender where the bridge sits, especially as you adjust to it.
If you experience significant discomfort or pain that doesn’t improve after a few days, contact your dentist. They can check the bridge’s fit and address any issues.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge in place?
Many people can comfortably eat a wide variety of foods after getting a dental bridge, though individual experiences may vary. The bridge is designed to restore your chewing function and allow you to enjoy meals as much as you did with your natural teeth.
In the first few days, you may want to stick to softer foods while you adjust. Once you’ve adjusted, you should be able to eat most foods without difficulty.
Foods to approach with caution:
- Hard lollies and ice can potentially damage the bridge.
- Sticky caramel may loosen the cement over time.
- Very tough meats might require extra care.
Cutting tough foods into smaller pieces can make them easier to manage. If you notice any discomfort when eating, contact your dentist for adjustments.
How many teeth can you replace with a dental bridge?
Dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth. The number of teeth that can be replaced depends on several factors, including the strength of your supporting teeth and the location of the gap.
| Number of Teeth | Common Use |
| 1 tooth | Most common; used when healthy teeth exist on both sides |
| 2-3 teeth | Fairly common when supporting teeth are strong enough |
| 4+ teeth | Often unsuitable for traditional bridges; alternatives like implant-supported bridges or partial dentures usuallt recommended |
When more than three teeth in a row are missing, a dental bridge may not always be the most suitable option. The longer the bridge, the greater the stress on the supporting teeth. For situations involving multiple missing teeth, your dentist might recommend alternatives such as implant-supported bridges or partial dentures.
What are the disadvantages of a dental bridge?
While dental bridges offer many benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind when deciding if they’re the right option for you.
Impact on adjacent teeth: Traditional bridges require reshaping the adjacent healthy teeth to accommodate the supporting crowns. This is a long-term alteration, and those teeth will need to remain crowned even if the bridge is replaced in the future. Some patients prefer alternatives that don’t involve modifying healthy tooth structure.
Other considerations include the following:
- Dental bridges require careful oral hygiene to clean under the pontic and around the crowns effectively.
- They have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced, typically after 10 to 15 years.
- Cost can be a consideration, with the amount varying based on the type of bridge and materials used.
- If supporting teeth aren’t strong enough or have underlying concerns, a bridge may not be suitable.
Your dentist will assess whether your mouth is ready for a bridge or if other preparatory work is needed first. They can also discuss alternative tooth replacement in Fremantle, such as dental implants or partial dentures, if a traditional bridge doesn’t suit your circumstances.
What types of dental bridges are available?
There are several types of dental bridges, each designed for different situations:
- Traditional Bridges:
The most common type, consisting of a pontic held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth. These are strong and suitable for areas experiencing heavy chewing forces. - Cantilever Bridges:
Supported by a crown on only one side of the gap. These may be used when there’s only one adjacent tooth available, though they’re not suitable for all areas. - Maryland Bridges:
These use wings that bond to the back of adjacent teeth instead of crowns. This approach involves less alteration to natural teeth but may not be as strong. - Implant-Supported Bridges:
Held in place by dental implants rather than natural teeth. This option may be recommended when multiple teeth are missing or when adjacent teeth aren’t suitable for supporting a traditional bridge.
During your consultation for dental bridges in Fremantle, your dentist will assess which type is most suitable for your individual needs and circumstances.
Will my dental bridge look natural?
Bridges are custom-made to match your existing teeth in size, shape, and colour, though individual results vary.
Your bridge is custom-made based on impressions of your teeth. The dental laboratory carefully matches the size, shape, and colour of the pontic and crowns to your existing teeth. Modern dental materials, such as porcelain and ceramic, can closely mimic the appearance of natural tooth enamel.
Your dentist will work with you to select the appropriate shade for your bridge. If you’re having other cosmetic work done, such as teeth whitening, your dentist may recommend completing that first. This allows the bridge colour to be matched accordingly.
How long does the dental bridge procedure take?
The dental bridge procedure typically involves multiple appointments spread over a few weeks.
- First appointment (1-2 hours):
Your dentist prepares the abutment teeth, takes impressions, and fits you with a temporary bridge. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your bridge is custom-made. - Laboratory fabrication (2-3 weeks):
During this time, you will wear a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth and maintain normal function. - Second appointment (approximately 1 hour):
Your dentist addresses the temporary bridge, checks the fit of the longer-term one, makes any necessary adjustments, and cements it into place.
In total, the process from start to finish typically takes about three to four weeks, though this may vary depending on individual circumstances and any additional dental work required.
What are the alternatives to a dental bridge?
If a dental bridge doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, there are other ways to replace missing teeth.
- Dental Implants:
An implant involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone with a crown attached. Implants don’t require altering adjacent teeth and tend to last longer, but they involve surgery and are typically more costly. - Partial Dentures:
These removable appliances can replace one or more missing teeth. They’re usually less expensive but may feel less stable than fixed restorations. - Implant-Supported Bridges:
These combine the benefits of implants and bridges, anchoring them to dental implants rather than natural teeth.
During your consultation, your dentist will discuss all available alternatives based on your oral health, budget, and personal preferences.
How long is the recovery time from a dental bridge procedure?
The recovery time from getting a dental bridge is typically quite short. Most patients experience only mild tenderness, which usually subsides within a few days of having their bridge placed, though recovery varies among patients.
Immediate post-procedure: You may experience some tenderness in the treated area, particularly around the gums and prepared teeth. This discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
During the adjustment period:
- Stick to softer foods if you’re experiencing sensitivity.
- Avoid very hot or cold items temporarily.
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene around the area that received care.
After your bridge is cemented in place, many patients experience minimal downtime. Recovery experiences vary between individuals. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, though some sensitivity may persist. If you experience persistent pain or swelling beyond the first few days, contact your dentist.
How long do dental bridges typically last?
On average, a well-maintained dental bridge may last around 5 to 10 years, though individual results vary significantly based on factors such as oral hygiene, diet, and individual circumstances.
Factors that affect longevity:
| Factor | Impact on Lifespan |
| Oral hygiene | Good cleaning habits extend bridge life |
| Regular check-ups | Early detection prevents major problems |
| Diet and habits | Avoiding hard foods protects the bridge |
| Supporting teeth health | Decay in abutment teeth may shorten bridge lifespan or require replacement |
Keeping the bridge and surrounding teeth clean helps prevent decay and gum disease. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your bridge during check-ups and identify potential issues early. Avoiding very hard or sticky foods and wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth can help protect your bridge.
When your bridge does eventually need replacement, your dentist will assess the condition of the supporting teeth and discuss your options.
Can a dental bridge affect adjacent teeth?
Yes, a dental bridge can affect the adjacent teeth, which is why it’s important to understand this before moving forward.
Tooth preparation requirements: To place a traditional dental bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap need to be reshaped to accommodate the supporting crowns. This involves removing a portion of the tooth enamel, which is a long-term change. Those teeth will always need to be protected with crowns, even if the bridge is replaced later.
Additional considerations:
- The abutment teeth bear increased chewing forces once the bridge is in place.
- Plaque and bacteria can accumulate along the margins of crowns if they are not cleaned properly.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene around the bridge is crucial for protecting the supporting teeth.
During your consultation, your dentist will assess the health of your adjacent teeth and determine whether they’re suitable for supporting a bridge. If there are any concerns, alternative options may be recommended. Your dentist will discuss both the benefits and potential impacts of a dental bridge during your consultation. This helps you have the information you need to make an informed choice about your dental care.
