Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer a reliable way to replace one or more missing teeth. They help restore your smile’s appearance and function, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably again. Our team at Brant Smiles Family Dentistry can help you understand if a dental bridge is the right solution for your needs.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It works by "bridging" the gap created by missing teeth, using your natural teeth or dental implants on either side for support. This creates a strong, stable replacement that looks and feels like your natural teeth. Bridges help maintain your bite and prevent other teeth from shifting out of place.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Choosing a dental bridge offers several important benefits for your oral health and overall well-being. They effectively restore your ability to chew and speak properly, which can be challenging with missing teeth. This improvement in function allows you to enjoy a wider range of foods and communicate more clearly.
Beyond function, dental bridges significantly enhance the appearance of your smile. They fill unsightly gaps, creating a more complete and natural-looking smile. Bridges also help maintain the shape of your face and prevent your remaining teeth from drifting into the empty spaces, which can lead to further dental issues.
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
At Brant Smiles Family Dentistry, we can discuss the various types of dental bridges available to find the best fit for your situation. The most common is a traditional bridge, which uses crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap to support the artificial tooth in between.
For specific cases, other options might be considered. A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but is supported by only one natural tooth. Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. Implant-supported bridges offer a very stable and long-lasting solution, where the bridge is anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge typically involves a few visits to our Brantford office. During your first appointment, we will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap, gently reshaping them to make room for the crowns that will support the bridge. We will then take precise impressions of your teeth.
These impressions are sent to a dental lab, where your custom bridge is crafted to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth. While your permanent bridge is being made, we will place a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth and maintain your smile.
On your final visit, we will carefully remove the temporary bridge and fit your permanent one. We will check its fit, bite, and appearance to ensure it is comfortable and looks natural. Once everything is perfect, the bridge will be permanently cemented into place, completing your smile restoration.
Caring for Your New Dental Bridge
Proper care is essential to ensure your new dental bridge lasts for many years and to maintain the health of your surrounding teeth and gums. Just like your natural teeth, bridges require consistent oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
It is especially important to clean thoroughly under and around your bridge to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Our team can show you how to use special tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes to reach these areas effectively. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings at Brant Smiles Family Dentistry are also crucial for monitoring your bridge and overall oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental bridges last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a dental bridge can last between 5 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. Its longevity depends on factors like the materials used, the health of your supporting teeth, and your daily care routine.
Will a dental bridge look natural?
Yes, dental bridges are custom-made to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Our goal is to create a bridge that blends seamlessly with your smile, making it difficult for others to tell you have a restoration.
Is the dental bridge procedure painful?
We ensure your comfort throughout the dental bridge procedure. We use local anesthetic to numb the area, so you should not feel any pain during the preparation of your teeth or the placement of the bridge. You might experience some mild sensitivity or soreness after the appointment, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Once your permanent bridge is in place and you are accustomed to it, you should be able to eat most foods normally. We generally recommend avoiding extremely hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage the bridge or dislodge it. Our team will provide specific dietary recommendations to help you care for your new bridge.