Dental Bridges - Ottawa, ON

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Patients who have a missing tooth surrounded by two healthy teeth are candidates for dental bridges. The idea behind dental bridges is that a pontic (false tooth) is used to replace the missing tooth. This false tooth is held in place by a bridge which uses the neighbouring healthy teeth for fixation and support.

A bridge can be used to replace several neighbouring missing teeth, not just a single one. As long as both sides of the gap have healthy teeth that can be used as anchors, a bridge can usually be done. If you’re looking to get a dental bridge, you need to know a few more things.

The healthy teeth used as anchors will need to be modified. Part of them is removed, including the enamel so that the crowns in the bridge can be fitted over the modified healthy teeth. Reshaping the teeth on which the crowns will be applied is important for the stability of the bridge.

Bridges were considered the standard treatment for missing teeth prior to the development of implants. Ever since implants were created, bridges have fallen a little out of favour. They’re still suggested when implants can’t be done and in a few other situations. There’s also the issue of patient preference.

Your dental bridge is expected to last between 5 to 15 years. What we really care about at SmilEra Dental Studio, Ottawa, ON, is the health of the teeth on which the crowns were applied. Decay or infection of these teeth can lead to the bridge falling off or a change in its position.

Keep in mind that bridges aren’t attached to the gum or jawbones. Their primary method of fixation is the anchoring teeth. Keep them healthy and in good shape will help you keep your dental bridge for a longer time.