Case Study
Missing Tooth Restored with a Custom Dental Bridge
Crafted to restore natural appearance and bite integrity
Patient overview
A missing tooth can change more than just the look of a smile. It can also affect how the teeth come together and function. In this case, our patient, Jack, was missing his upper left lateral incisor, with visible gum resorption in the area of the missing tooth.
To restore balance, function, and a natural appearance, we designed and crafted a custom dental bridge in our onsite lab. The restoration was meticulously created by our skilled ceramist to blend seamlessly with Jack’s existing teeth, achieving a lifelike and harmonious result.
Clinical assessment and planning
During the examination, both the left central incisor and left canine adjacent to the gap were found to be healthy and structurally sound, making them ideal abutments for a custom dental bridge. After a thorough evaluation and discussion of treatment options, a fixed dental bridge was chosen as the most suitable solution to replace the missing tooth, offering excellent aesthetics and function without the need for implant surgery.
Digital imaging and shade analysis were used to plan the precise shape, colour, and alignment of the restoration to plan a bridge that would integrate seamlessly with the patient’s natural smile. Every step was planned with precision to suit the patient’s unique case, allowing for a personalised and predictable outcome.
Tooth preparation and impression
To prepare for the bridge, both the left central incisor and left canine were conservatively shaped to create ideal surfaces for bonding. This minimal preparation allowed the bridge to fit securely while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.
A digital impression was then captured using our high-definition intraoral scanner, eliminating the need for traditional moulds. This advanced technology provided exceptional precision, detail, and patient comfort. The accurate scan data was then sent directly to our onsite dental laboratory for the fabrication of Jack’s custom bridge.
Custom bridge fabrication
Our in-house ceramist meticulously designed and crafted the bridge to mirror the colour, texture, and translucency of Jack’s natural teeth. Using high-quality ceramic materials, the restoration combined durability with a lifelike, natural appearance.
Because the fabrication took place onsite, communication between the dentist and ceramist was seamless. This close collaboration allowed for precise adjustments to the shade, contour, and detail to create the final bridge which blended perfectly with the surrounding teeth.
Bridge placement and final evaluation
Once Jack’s custom dental bridge was completed, it was carefully tried in to assess the fit, bite, and overall aesthetics. After ensuring optimal comfort and alignment, the bridge was securely bonded into place.
The final restoration beautifully reestablished the continuity of Jack’s smile—enhancing chewing function, speech, and facial balance. Its seamless integration made the bridge virtually indistinguishable from his natural teeth.
* This case study is for educational purposes only and represents one patient’s individual treatment. Results may vary based on each patient’s oral condition and specific needs.
Outcome
Jack’s treatment successfully restored a complete, healthy, and natural-looking smile. The new bridge rebuilt the missing tooth’s structure and harmony within his upper arch while supporting the surrounding gums and maintaining balanced bite forces. With consistent oral care and routine dental check-ups, the restoration is expected to remain strong, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
Precision and artistry in custom bridge restorations
This case showcases the precision, craftsmanship, and teamwork behind restoring a single missing tooth with a custom-made dental bridge. With meticulous digital planning, premium materials, and close collaboration between our dentist and onsite ceramist, we achieved a restoration that delivers lasting strength, natural beauty, and functional harmony.