lab where the two pieces will be soldered and returned for another try-in or final cementation. Advantages of bridges Dental bridges offer several advantages. They can usually be completed in only two dental appointments, restore the tooth back to full chewing function, require no periodic removal for cleaning, have a long life-expectancy and are aesthetically pleasing. Bridge failures Common reasons for bridge failures Poor oral hygiene: As with any fixed prosthesis including bridges, maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent plaque formation around the bridge is key. This will ensure prolonged performance. A study examined the gingival health around the fixed bridges after a 14-day - 6 month post insertion found the surfaces were more plaque retentive, causing gingival inflammation regardless the material of fabrication of the bridge, unlike single crowns which didn't show the same effect. Mechanical failures: These failures can occur due to loss of retention of the bridge due to improper cementation, construction or preparation. Fracture of the metal coating or pontic can also lead to mechanical failures. Fracture in connectors of bridges at the gingival side is a common finding in most all-ceram bridges. Biological failures: These can occur due to caries in the tooth (one of the commonest causes of crown and bridge failures) or due to pulpal injury. Problems with abutment teeth such as tooth fracture, secondary caries or periodontal disease can cause discomfort and put pressure on surrounding soft tissues to also cause a biological failure of the bridge. Aesthetic failures: These can occur at the time of cementation and include; colour mismatch, roughness of margins or improper tooth contour. Aesthetics failures can also occur over a period of time including through wear of teeth, gingival recession or drifting of teeth. Problems with abutment teeth: Abutment teeth affected by secondary caries, vitality loss or periodontal disease can all lead to bridge failure. Oral manifestations of bridge failures Bridge failures result in clinical complications and patients can present with: Pain in the oral cavity Sensitivity, bleeding and inflammation of the gums Foul breath and taste disturbances Bridge failure management Management of bridge failures depends upon the extent and type of failure and these can be prevented through forming a thorough treatment plan with the patient as well regularly emphasising the importance of maintaining a very good level of oral hygiene after the bridge has been placed. The importance of cleaning underneath the pontic, through the