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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Dental Bridges in Lynedoch
A fixed bridge can fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Lynedoch patients can compare bridges, implants and partials with our Port Dover dentist.
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Caring for Lynedoch patients at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Lynedoch patientsClosing the gap
A bridge uses neighbouring teeth to support a replacement tooth.
When a tooth is lost, the space it leaves can affect chewing, speech and the position of nearby teeth, which may drift or tilt over time. A traditional bridge replaces the missing tooth with an artificial one held in place by crowns on the teeth on either side. It is fixed in the mouth and does not come out for cleaning.
Lynedoch patients with a gap to fill can discuss bridges at our Port Dover office alongside other options such as implants or a partial denture. The dentist will look at the supporting teeth and gums and explain which approach best suits your mouth, health and preferences.
Is a bridge suitable
The teeth beside the gap play a big part in the decision.
Health of the supporting teeth
A bridge depends on strong neighbouring teeth to carry the load of the replacement. The dentist checks these teeth for decay, existing large fillings, gum support and bone levels. X-rays help show what is happening below the gumline. If the supporting teeth are weak, another option may be more reliable.
Comparing with other replacements
Implants replace a tooth without involving neighbouring teeth, while partial dentures are removable and may suit several gaps. Each has different requirements for surgery, healing time and maintenance. Ask the dentist to explain how a bridge compares for your situation, including what each option asks of the surrounding teeth.
Preparing the teeth
The first appointment prepares the teeth that will hold the bridge.
Shaping the anchor teeth
After freezing the area, the dentist reshapes the supporting teeth so the crowns of the bridge can fit over them. This removes some enamel, which is a permanent change worth understanding before you agree. Ask how much tooth structure will be affected and what that means for those teeth long term.
Impressions and a temporary bridge
Impressions or a scan are taken to make the bridge, and the shade is chosen to match nearby teeth. A temporary bridge is usually placed to protect the prepared teeth. It is less sturdy than the final one, so avoid sticky or hard foods and call the office if it loosens before your next visit.
Fitting the bridge
The final visit focuses on comfort and a secure fit.
Checking fit, bite and appearance
When the permanent bridge returns from the lab, the dentist removes the temporary and checks how the new bridge fits against the gums and teeth. Your bite is examined closely. Take a moment to look at the colour and shape, and mention anything that does not seem right before it is cemented.
Cementing the bridge in place
Once you and the dentist are satisfied, the bridge is cemented to the anchor teeth. Excess cement is cleaned away and the bite checked again. It may feel unfamiliar at first. If your bite feels high or you notice soreness once freezing fades, call so an adjustment can be arranged.
Caring for a bridge
Daily cleaning around the bridge protects the teeth holding it.
Cleaning under the replacement tooth
Food and plaque can collect under the false tooth, so cleaning beneath it is important. Floss threaders, special floss or small interdental brushes can help. The hygienist can show you the technique that works best for your bridge. Skipping this step increases the risk of decay and gum disease at the anchor teeth.
Regular checks of supporting teeth
At checkups, the dentist examines the bridge and supporting teeth for decay, gum changes and wear. X-rays may be taken periodically. Bridges can last many years with good care, but problems with an anchor tooth can affect the whole bridge, so early detection matters.
Planning your appointment
Discussing a bridge from Lynedoch.
Call our Port Dover office and mention which tooth is missing and how long ago it was lost. The dentist can then plan an assessment that compares your replacement options.
Ask how many visits a bridge usually involves so you can plan the trips and time between appointments.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Dental bridge questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How long does a bridge last?
Many bridges last for years, depending on the health of the anchor teeth, daily cleaning and bite forces. Regular checkups help detect problems at supporting teeth early, which helps the bridge last.
Is getting a bridge painful?
Freezing is used while the teeth are prepared, so the procedure itself should be comfortable. Some sensitivity afterward is common and usually settles. Let the office know if discomfort continues.
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
Once the permanent bridge is placed and you are used to it, most foods are fine. Avoid very hard or sticky items that could damage it, and chew carefully until you feel comfortable.
Why not just leave the gap?
Gaps can allow nearby teeth to shift and opposing teeth to over-erupt, which may affect your bite. Some people choose to leave a gap, and the dentist can explain the possible consequences for you.
Is a bridge better than an implant?
Neither is better for everyone. Bridges avoid surgery but involve preparing neighbouring teeth, while implants stand alone but require healing time. The dentist will help you compare them for your situation.
Other ways to replace a tooth
General Dentistry →Dental Implants →
Dental implants replace missing teeth with a post anchored in the jaw. Lynedoch patients can learn about candidacy, staged treatment and healing at our Port Dover office.
Dentures →
Thinking about dentures for the first time? Lynedoch patients can learn how dentures are planned, made and adjusted with the dentist at our Port Dover office.