Dental Bridges

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges act as a literal bridge to fill in the gap created by missing teeth. Dental bridges concern more than just the gap in between your teeth. They actually involve the teeth on either side of the gap.

How Are Dental Bridges Fitted?

The teeth on either side of the gap must have some enamel removed so the bridge can be fabricated and put in place. A dental crown or a dental cap is added to each tooth on either side of the gap, and a dental crown is created for the prosthetic tooth that fills the gap.

Here’s a little diagram to show you what we mean:

Dental Bridges and Prosthetic Teeth

Dental Bridges are made of different materials. They can be made of gold or metal, but the most popular choice of material for aesthetic purposes is porcelain. Porcelain can be fused to a precious internal metal layer, or the porcelain can stand on its own. The choice you make will depend on the location of the bridge, your bite, and how your teeth come together. The Stonegate Dental team can help advise you during your consultation for a dental bridge.

During your first appointment, the teeth beside the gap will be prepared and reshaped for the bridge to fit. A temporary bridge can also be made for you to wear until the custom bridge is permanently cemented and fitted to your teeth. Dental bridges do need to be replaced every 10 years or so because of the teeth underneath the crowns and changes in your gum line. Although they tend to cost less than dental implants for the initial bridge, subsequent ones may end up costing more over time.

To learn more about dental bridges book a consultation in our Guelph dentist office.