An illustration of a dental bridge.

Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges
at Vita Dental Wellness

Bridges connect gaps between teeth. Leaving these spaces empty can increase your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. It could also negatively impact your bite or the way your upper and lower jaw come into contact with each other.

Our dentists at Vita Dental Wellness offer bridges to help rebuild your smile and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to book your dental visit.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a custom, long-term tooth replacement option. It's made up of the anchoring teeth or abutment on either side of the gap and the artificial tooth or teeth in the middle. An artificial tooth is also referred to as a 'pontic' or 'false tooth.'

Why Would I Need a Dental Bridge?

You may find a dental bridge helpful if you need to:

  • Replace missing teeth
  • Correct bite problems
  • Keep adjacent teeth from occupying the gap
  • Address speech and chewing difficulties
  • Preserve facial structure
  • Reduce tooth and jaw pain

The Dental Bridge Procedure

A bridge usually involves two dental visits. During your first visit, the abutment teeth are filed to accommodate the crown.

Then, your dentist takes a mold or impression of the site and forwards it to the dental laboratory for fabrication.

You'll be given a temporary bridge to wear while the final restoration is being made. This will also help you get used to your new device, which will be placed later.

Finally, your permanent bridge is attached, evaluated, and adjusted to ensure your comfort. Your dentist will provide instructions to help you care for and get accustomed to your bridge.

What Happens After Getting Dental Bridges?

Missing teeth can make eating and pronouncing certain sounds more challenging. Filling the gaps can address these issues. However, there will be an adjustment period.

At first, you may feel uncomfortable, especially if the site has been empty for a while. Opting for soft food or cutting your food into small pieces before eating helps.

Regular brushing and flossing remain essential to keep debris from getting stuck between teeth. Not to mention, tooth decay can weaken the anchoring teeth and cause your crowns to collapse.

Your diet and speech should improve as time goes on. You should be able to enjoy your food better and find it easier to speak without mumbling words.

With proper care, your dental bridge can last for over 10 years. So, avoid using your teeth as a tool, and don't forget your routine dental hygiene cleanings and exams so your dentist can check the condition of your dental bridges.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge offers several benefits, including:

  • Improving your bite
  • Completing your smile with a natural-looking restoration
  • Preserving the ideal position of adjacent teeth
  • Restoring your chewing and speaking abilities
  • Making brushing and flossing easier
  • Boosting your confidence
  • Avoiding jawbone deterioration

How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?

The cost of a dental bridge varies depending on the number of teeth missing that need bridges. Your choice of material and the dental work necessary before proceeding with the procedure can also affect the overall cost.

Learn More About Dental Bridges
in Chilliwack, British Columbia

Get your life back by restoring your smile. If you're interested in getting dental bridges or replacing missing teeth but don't know where to start, contact our dental office in Chilliwack, BC.

Every dental treatment has its pros and cons. During your oral examinations, our dentist discusses further what you can expect from bridges, crowns, implants, or any procedure you're curious about.

Our team members are happy to assist you as you start your journey to a better and healthier smile. Call us at (604) 858-5152 or leave us a message, and we'll get back to you.