Fill the Gaps Caused by Missing Teeth
Missing teeth don’t just affect your appearance; they can also cause problems with speaking, chewing, and even lead to additional oral health concerns as neighbouring teeth shift. Fortunately, dental bridges offer an effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile.
Dental bridges function by replacing missing teeth with false teeth that are supported by dental implants, natural teeth, or a combination of both. Known as a “fixed partial denture,” bridges are securely bonded or cemented in place, making them a permanent solution. Unlike dentures, bridges don’t need to be removed for cleaning or sleeping, making them a convenient and effective way to maintain your oral health.
The Long-Lasting Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges do more than just improve the appearance of your smile—they offer several essential benefits for your overall oral health:
Comfort
Missing teeth can make chewing and speaking uncomfortable or difficult. Dental bridges restore full functionality to your mouth, allowing you to enjoy your favourite foods and communicate clearly without discomfort.
Tooth Health
Dental bridges play a crucial role in maintaining the alignment of your teeth. Missing teeth can cause nearby teeth to shift, leading to issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and even jaw discomfort or TMJ disorders. By filling these gaps, bridges prevent unwanted movement and help maintain your facial structure.
Bone Health
Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge helps preserve the health of your jawbone. Without the stimulation provided by teeth, bone loss can occur, weakening the underlying structure of your mouth. A bridge helps stabilize your dental health, slowing the rate of bone loss associated with missing teeth.
By addressing these concerns, dental bridges offer a long-term solution that not only improves appearance but also supports your overall oral health.
Are You a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
While dental bridges can be a great solution for replacing missing teeth, Guelph Family Dentistry evaluates each patient individually to ensure it’s the right option. Several factors influence whether a dental bridge is suitable for you:
How Many Teeth Need to Be Replaced
Dental bridges are usually recommended for patients missing one to three teeth. If more teeth are missing, the bridge might become unstable, and your dentist may suggest a combination of dental implants and a bridge for added support.
Tooth Health
Healthy teeth are crucial for supporting a dental bridge. If the surrounding teeth are weak or unhealthy, the bridge may not last as long and could need replacement sooner.
Other Factors
Your dentist will consider additional factors, such as your bite alignment, gum health, and oral hygiene, to determine if a dental bridge is the best option. To find out if a dental bridge is right for you, contact Guelph Family Dentistry for a consultation today.
The Cost of a Dental Bridge in Guelph
The cost of a dental bridge varies depending on several factors. If you have a typical insurance plan, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1200+. For those without insurance, the cost may range from $2000 to $3000 or more.
Factors influencing the cost include:
- The type of bridge and the materials used
- The number of teeth being replaced
- The complexity and location of the procedure
- The condition of the adjacent teeth
- The equipment and supplies needed for your specific case
Because every case is unique, it’s crucial to schedule a consultation for an accurate quote. If you have insurance, we can provide you with a quote to help determine your out-of-pocket costs before proceeding with treatment.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
A permanent bridge, sometimes called a fixed bridge, is bonded securely to existing teeth or implants and stays in place. Semi-permanent bridges are similar, as they are also bonded but may not offer the same level of permanence. Partial dentures, on the other hand, are removable prosthetics that include both artificial teeth and gums, whereas bridges are just the teeth.
A cantilever bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth only on one side of the missing tooth. This type is less common now and is not recommended for the back of the mouth, as it can exert too much pressure on the remaining teeth, potentially causing damage.
The entire process usually takes two appointments, each lasting less than an hour.
Dental bridges can be made from various materials, including gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these. Porcelain is commonly used due to its natural appearance.
Dental crowns are caps placed over damaged teeth to strengthen and protect them, whereas dental bridges are designed to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap.
A crown by itself cannot replace a missing tooth. It requires support from an existing tooth or a dental implant to function as a replacement.
Yes, bridges can be made from zirconia, which is a durable and natural-looking material. If you’re interested in zirconia bridges, your dentist can provide more details on whether they are suitable for your specific needs.
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