WHAT IS A BRIDGE?

A porcelain bridge is an effective and permanent way to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge consists of at least two crowns (called “retainer crowns”), one on each side of the empty space, connected by a pontic, which replaces the missing tooth. A bridge takes two visits to complete. The first involves preparation of the teeth that will serve as supports for the bridge. They are each reduced in size to make room for the retainer crowns, an impression is taken so the laboratory can fabricate a bridge, and a temporary bridge is placed until the final bridge is ready. The lab fabricates your bridge to look and feel like natural teeth and blend seamlessly with your dentition. At the second visit, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is cemented in place.

Is a bridge right for me?

If your tooth is missing, but its former position is surrounded by other tooth structures, a bridge may be the solution for you. Schedule an office consultation to determine whether you could benefit from a dental bridge.

What should I expect when I have my bridge placed?

If you are a candidate for a bridge, your teeth will be reduced to ensure a proper fit. An impression will then be taken of your bite and used to fabricate a mold for the bridge. If you are choosing porcelain prosthesis, its colour will be matched to the natural shade of your other teeth. If a dental lab is making your bridge, you may be fitted with temporary crowns until the permanent one is ready for placement.

Do I need to follow any post-treatment care guidelines?

Your teeth will need time to heal following the bridge placement process, so it is normal for you to experience some sensitivity – especially to hot and cold. Additionally, you may experience soreness in the gums surrounding your restorations, though this is usually manageable with ibuprofen and should subside within a few days.