Dental Bridges for Missing Teeth
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by creating a fixed restoration across the space. Depending on the situation, a bridge may be supported by neighbouring natural teeth or by dental implants. At Eglinton Way Dentistry, Dr. Tarra Elliott offers both traditional and implant-supported bridges.
Why replace a missing tooth?
When a tooth is lost, nearby teeth can drift into the gap, the opposing tooth can grow down (or up) into the space, and the bone where the root used to be gradually shrinks. This can affect your bite and make teeth harder to clean.
What types of bridges are there?
Traditional bridge: the teeth on each side of the gap are crowned, and the false tooth is attached between them.
Implant-supported bridge: implants replace the missing roots and hold the bridge, so neighbouring teeth are left untouched. Often used for several missing teeth in a row.
Resin-bonded bridge: a false tooth attached to the back of neighbouring teeth with small wings. Mainly used for front teeth.
How does a traditional dental bridge work?
A traditional bridge typically uses crowns placed on teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. Those crowns support the replacement tooth, called a pontic, that fills the space between them.
Once cemented in place, the bridge remains fixed rather than being removed like a partial denture.
What is an implant-supported bridge?
When several teeth are missing, dental implants may be used to support a bridge.
This can replace multiple teeth without requiring every missing tooth to have its own individual implant.
It can also avoid using natural neighbouring teeth as supports in certain cases.
Do I need a bridge or dental implant?
A single missing tooth can sometimes be replaced with either a traditional bridge or a dental implant.
Factors to consider include:
condition of neighbouring teeth
available bone
treatment time
cost
bite
appearance
long-term treatment goals
If adjacent teeth already require crowns, a bridge may be an efficient option. If those teeth are healthy, an implant may allow them to remain untouched. Dr. Elliott can explain the advantages of each option based on your specific situation.
What is the process for getting a bridge?
We examine the area and discuss your options.
We prepare the supporting teeth and take a digital scan.
You wear a temporary bridge while the final one is made.
We fit and cement the final bridge.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a dental bridge last?
With good care, bridges commonly last 10 to 15 years. Keeping the supporting teeth and gums healthy is the most important factor.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Use a floss threader, super floss or a water flosser to clean under the false tooth every day. Your hygienist will show you how.
Is a bridge covered by insurance?
Many plans cover part of the cost under major restorative coverage. We can check your coverage before treatment.
Dr. Tarra Elliott and her team are trained and experienced in using dental implants to secure bridges. This can sometimes offer more options for prosthodontics. Learn about the use of dental implants to secure bridges here.