When you need to fill a gap from a lost tooth or several teeth in a row, a dental bridge is a cost-effective and surgery-free option. Many patients in our NW Calgary clinic choose a dental bridge replacement because the procedure is painless, minimally invasive, and looks natural.
Replacing missing teeth is not just for aesthetic purposes, but for the overall health and function of your teeth and gums. Gaps from a lost tooth can cause other teeth to shift and lead to bite issues, misalignment, and crowded teeth. These dental issues can increase a patient’s risk of decay and gum disease, highlighting the importance of replacing missing teeth as soon as possible.
If you’re considering a dental bridge replacement in Calgary, keep reading to learn more about the procedure and what to expect.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a set of artificial crowns that can replace one or multiple consecutive missing teeth. The crowns on the ends of the bridge are hollow and fit over adjacent teeth (whether they are natural teeth or implants) with a ‘bridge’ of a single crown or more to fill the gap. Some patients choose a mix of dental implants and a dental bridge to lower the cost of their teeth restoration procedure.
Bridges are secured with high-grade dental cement to keep them in place and cannot be taken out. They are customized to fit your mouth and match the colour of your surrounding teeth. With proper brushing and aftercare, a dental bridge can last for over 10 years. Dental bridges require no surgery and can restore your smile immediately.
What are dental bridges made of?
A dental bridge can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal, all with different price points to meet your budget. They are tailored to match the shade of your teeth. If you’re interested in whiter teeth, we recommend professional teeth whitening before going ahead with the dental bridge procedure so we can match the bridge to your whitened teeth.
Although a dental bridge is made of strong and durable material, you should still avoid biting down on hard foods or objects with your dental bridge. Be sure to brush and floss daily to maintain them.
What to expect with a dental bridge consultation
When you book an appointment with us at Brentwood Village Dental Clinic for a dental bridge, we:
- Assess the overall health of your teeth and gums
- Examine the gap/gaps in your teeth which may or may not require X-rays
- Determine if a dental bridge is the right restorative solution
- Explain what the treatment involves along with expected costs and time
- Discuss other tooth replacement options with their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision
- Proceed with X-rays and impressions of your mouth if you decide to go with the dental bridge route
The initial consultation is typically an informational appointment. Come with any questions and, if you need some time to decide and compare costs, there is no pressure to go ahead with the procedure. Our dental team is here to help you find a suitable restorative solution that you can be comfortable with.
