Dental Bridges

Your Lloydminster Choice for Dental Bridges!

Tooth Suite Family Dentistry is pleased to offer a variety of restorative dental treatments, including dental bridges.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge, also known as a fixed partial denture, is very similar to a dental crown, and is used as a restorative dental treatment to replace one or multiple missing teeth in the same area. It does this by joining permanently to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants next to the teeth being treated. Essentially, a dental bridge “bridges” the gap left behind from one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge is supported by either natural teeth around the gap, or by dental implants. It is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges, depending on how they are fabricated and the way in which they anchor to the adjacent teeth. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

Reasons for a fixed dental bridge:

Fill space of missing teeth
Maintain facial shape
Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Restore chewing and speaking ability
Restore your smile
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

Dental Bridge | Tooth Suite Family Dentistry | General Dentist | Lloydminster

What is the Process Involved in Getting a Bridge?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Prepping involves reducing the size of the abutment teeth to accommodate the material that will be used to restore the size and shape of the original teeth so that there will be correct alignment and contact with the opposing teeth. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. The new bridge is usually sent back to the office within 1-2 weeks. To ensure protection and to protect aesthetics, a temporary bridge will be made in-office while the final bridge is being processed, and temporarily placed and worn until your next appointment where the final bridge is permanently cemented.

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

What are the Benefits of a Dental Bridge?

Restores your teeth function and makes chewing easier
Maintains your smile aesthetics and overall appearance
Prevents the surrounding teeth from drifting out of position
Fills in the spaces that would otherwise leave surrounding teeth susceptible to tooth decay

The best candidate for a dental bridge is a person with one or more missing teeth and good dental hygiene. Special attention to your dental hygiene at home will need to be taken, especially flossing under the bridge. Furthermore, dental visits, including professional cleanings, should be completed every six months to maintain the bridge and overall dental well-being.