Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. Your existing teeth are used to literally create a bridge to cross the area where your tooth is missing. Dental Bridges are fixed, or non-removable, prosthesis constructed to replace one or more missing teeth.

The teeth on both sides of the existing space are used to attach the bridge to restore functionality and aesthetics. The materials used to create dental bridges are noble alloys, gold, or other metals, which are often fused with porcelain for a strong, durable, and natural appearance.

Why you might need a dental bridge?

A dental bridge can serve several purposes including:

• Replacing missing teeth
• Preventing movement of other teeth
• Fixing the aesthetics of your smile
• Full mouth rehabilitation
• Dental Implant therapy

Dental Bridges are indicated whenever at least one tooth is missing. A bridge is composed of abutments and pontics. Abutments are the supports for the bridge and consist of crowns placed on the teeth surrounding the empty space. The pontics are special crowns that span across the empty space and connect to the abutments.

Do you really need to replace a missing tooth?

If you have missing teeth, the teeth around them and on the opposite arch can begin to drift out of place. Teeth that drift out of position:

• are prone to tooth decay
• experience uneven wear and bite force
• can affect the feel of your bite and your smile

The Process

The process of creating a bridge begins by creating abutments out of your existing teeth where the bridge will be attached. The existing teeth are recontoured to provide a base for the bridge. After the abutments have been created, a mold is taken of the area which is sent to a dental lab. The lab is able to use the mold to create a bridge that will fit properly and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. The bridge consists of two crowns on either end to place on the abutments and a pontic, which is the new tooth that replaces your missing tooth.

We will fit you with a temporary bridge while we wait for the lab to craft your permanent bridge. This will protect the abutments and the exposed gum areas and look more appealing than having a missing tooth. When the permanent bridge has been created, you will have a follow up visit to set the bridge. It will be placed on the abutments and the dentist will then use an adhesive to make sure that the bridge is set.

After the Procedure

The bridge may take a little while to get used to, but after a few days it should feel like you have your own teeth back again. You should eat soft foods for the first few days after having your bridge placed. After the initial phase, you will be able to eat whatever you want with no issues.

Here at Grand River Dental in Kitchener, we offer crowns and bridge services to our patients. If you have missing teeth, please call us at (519) 896-2669 and book a consultation with our dentist to discuss your options.