Dental Bridges Complete Smiles and Restore Oral Function For Patients with Tooth Loss
Restorative dental care is a branch of dentistry that rebuilds your dental health if you have damaged or missing teeth. The goal is to improve your smile and prevent numerous dental health problems from occurring by postponing treatment.
For patients with tooth loss, Dr. Far and Gang Wang offer numerous tooth replacement options. One way we can fill your mouth gaps is by using natural-looking dental bridges. Dental bridges can either be anchored by crowns or implants for stability. Both options complete your smile and restore your ability to chew and speak better.
What are dental bridges?
Like a partial denture, a dental bridge fills the gap left by teeth missing in a row. Traditional dental bridges are held in place with healthy teeth on either side of the gap with missing teeth. The healthy teeth (abutments) are encased with dental crowns to secure the bridge aptly. Sometimes, your dentist may recommend a cantilever bridge supported by just one crown.
You can also opt for implant-supported bridges. These dental bridges don’t affect the stability or health of the neighbouring teeth. Implant bridges are anchored directly in the jawbone, hence a popular option for many patients.
What does getting dental bridges look like?
Do you want to close your mouth gap with a dental bridge? You should commit to at least two dental appointments. During the first appointment, we take your medical history and assess your dental health to determine whether a dental bridge is the best option to replace your teeth.
If you are eligible, we file down the abutment teeth to create room for a dental crown. Then, we take the oral impressions of the prepared and opposing teeth and send the images to our lab technicians to fabricate custom-fitting restorations. Since manufacturing your bridge may take several days to a few weeks, we protect your prepped teeth with a temporary bridge.
When your dental bridge is ready, we will notify you to visit our office for installation. We use dental cement to affix your new bridge in place. Before letting you go, we check your bite to ensure it feels and looks natural. Several adjustments may be necessary before you get used to your dental bridge.
Benefits of dental bridges
Patients who replace their teeth with dental bridges enjoy many benefits, including:
- Restored ability to eat and speak better
- Renewed confidence
- Dental bridges are long-lasting, provided they are looked after and maintained very well by the patient.
- Porcelain bridges are natural-looking
- They are easy to maintain
Want to replace your missing teeth with natural-looking dental bridges? Please dial (343) 803-6333 to schedule an appointment with The Hope Dental Care Centre. We are centrally located in Kanata, ON, but we serve the surrounding cities of Stittsville, Carp, and Richmond, ON.
A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How do traditional dental bridges affect the surrounding teeth?
Traditional dental bridges rely on adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth, to support the bridge structure. These teeth must be reshaped and fitted with crowns to anchor the bridge securely. While this ensures stability, it permanently alters otherwise healthy teeth. Over time, additional stress on these abutment teeth may increase the risk of decay, fractures, or gum disease if not properly cared for. This is why excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential. For patients concerned about altering adjacent teeth, implant-supported bridges may be an alternative, as they do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support.
What is the difference in maintenance between traditional bridges and implant-supported crowns bridges?
Traditional bridges and implant-supported crowns bridges require thorough oral care, but there are differences in maintenance. Traditional bridges require special cleaning tools, such as floss threaders or interdental brushes, to clean underneath the false tooth and between abutment teeth. Implant-supported crowns bridges are easier to maintain as they mimic natural teeth and can be brushed and flossed like normal teeth. However, they still require regular dental visits to monitor the health of the surrounding gums and bone. Both types benefit from routine professional cleanings to ensure longevity and prevent complications.
Can a dental bridge affect the shape of my face?
 Yes, dental bridges can help maintain the shape of your face by preventing bone loss and supporting facial structure. When teeth are missing, the surrounding bone can deteriorate, leading to a sunken or aged appearance. Traditional bridges rely on neighbouring teeth for support and may not directly prevent jawbone loss beneath the missing tooth. However, implant-supported crowns bridges stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping maintain bone density. Choosing the right type of bridge can play a role in preserving your facial structure.
What materials are used for dental bridges, and how do they differ?
Dental bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, zirconia, metal alloys, or a combination. Porcelain is popular for its natural appearance, making it ideal for front teeth restorations. Zirconia is known for its strength and durability and is often used for bridges in areas that experience higher biting forces. Metal-based bridges, sometimes combined with porcelain, offer a sturdy foundation but may be less aesthetically pleasing. The material choice often depends on location, durability needs, and cosmetic preferences.
How do implant-supported crowns bridges affect bone health over time?
 Implant-supported crowns bridges benefit bone health by providing the stimulation necessary to maintain bone density in the jaw. Traditional bridges do not offer this benefit since they sit above the gum line and rely on adjacent teeth for support. When tooth roots are missing, the surrounding bone gradually deteriorates. Dental implants act as artificial roots, integrating with the jawbone and reducing the rate of preventing bone loss. This helps maintain the structure of your jaw and the overall health of your mouth over time.
Can a dental bridge be replaced if it becomes damaged or worn?
Yes, a dental bridge can be replaced if it’s damaged or worn. Over time, wear and tear, gum recession, or other factors may affect the bridge’s fit and function. In some cases, the underlying abutment teeth may also need treatment if they develop decay or structural issues. If damaged, implant-supported crowns bridges may require component replacement or reattachment, but the implant posts often remain intact.
Can I eat all types of foods with a dental bridge?
Dental bridges, whether traditional or implant-supported, are designed to restore function, allowing you to enjoy most foods. However, certain precautions are advisable. Sticky foods like caramel can dislodge a traditional bridge, while hard foods like ice or nuts may damage the bridge or surrounding teeth. Implant-supported crowns bridges tend to be more stable and resistant to these risks because they are able to dissipate the bite force into the surrounding bone. Regardless of the type, maintaining a balanced diet and practicing mindful eating habits can help protect your dental restoration.
