A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth.

The replacement tooth, or teeth, fills the space left behind and is supported by neighbouring teeth, dental crowns, or dental implants depending on the type of bridge being used.

Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge stays in place and is designed to feel like a natural part of your smile.

There are several types of dental bridges, and the right option depends on the location of the missing tooth, the condition of the surrounding teeth, your bite, and your overall oral health.

Common options include:

• Traditional bridges, which use crowns on the teeth next to the space to support the replacement tooth
• Implant-supported bridges, which are supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth
• Other bridge designs that may be appropriate in specific situations

Bridges can be made from a variety of dental materials, including porcelain and ceramic materials designed to closely resemble natural teeth.

During your consultation, we will explain which options may be suitable for you and why.

A missing tooth can sometimes seem like a cosmetic concern, especially if the space is not highly visible. Over time, however, an untreated space may affect the health and function of your smile.

Replacing a missing tooth may help:

• Restore your ability to chew comfortably
• Improve the appearance of your smiley
• Support clearer speech in some casesy
• Prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting into the open spacey
• Maintain a more balanced bitey
• Restore support where a tooth has been losty

The best replacement option will depend on your individual needs.

Dental bridges and dental implants can both be excellent ways to replace missing teeth, but they work differently.

A traditional bridge is supported by neighbouring teeth, which usually need to be prepared for crowns. A dental implant is placed into the jawbone and supports a replacement tooth independently.

In some cases, a bridge may be the more practical choice. In others, a dental implant may offer advantages because the neighbouring teeth do not need to support the restoration.

Rather than recommending one solution for everyone, we will look at the condition of your teeth, gums, bone, bite, and long-term goals before discussing the options that make the most sense for you.

Treatment for a traditional dental bridge typically takes more than one appointment.

During the first stage of treatment, the supporting teeth are prepared and digital scans or impressions are taken. These records are used to create a custom bridge that fits your bite and complements the surrounding teeth.

A temporary restoration may be placed while your final bridge is being created.

At your final appointment, we will assess the fit, shape, colour, and bite before securely placing your bridge.