Patient video
Welcoming and Wonderful Practice
A patient shares the welcoming atmosphere and positive experience they found at our Port Dover office.
★★★★★
Port Dover Family Dentistry
Dental Bridges in Selkirk
A dental bridge fills a gap using neighbouring teeth for support. Selkirk patients can compare bridges with implants and partials at our Port Dover office.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsFilling a gap with a fixed option
A bridge relies on the teeth beside the space.
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with an artificial tooth held in place by crowns on the neighbouring teeth, or sometimes by implants. Unlike a removable denture, a conventional bridge is cemented and stays in place. It can restore chewing, support the bite and fill a visible gap, but it does require preparing the supporting teeth.
Because the work happens over a couple of visits, people travelling from Selkirk often want to know the sequence and timing up front. At our Port Dover office, the dentist can explain whether a bridge is a good fit, how it compares with an implant or partial denture, and what each stage involves.
Considering a bridge
The teeth next to the gap matter as much as the gap.
Health of the supporting teeth
For a traditional bridge, the teeth on either side need to be healthy and strong enough to carry the extra load. If they already have large fillings or crowns, a bridge may protect them as well. If they are untouched and healthy, preparing them is a significant trade-off. Gum health and bone levels are also assessed before recommending a bridge.
Comparing alternatives
An implant replaces a tooth without involving neighbouring teeth but requires surgery and adequate bone. A partial denture is removable and often less invasive but may feel less stable. A bridge sits between these in many respects. The dentist can explain the advantages and trade-offs so you can compare the options for your situation.
Preparing the teeth
The first visit prepares the foundation.
Shaping and impressions
After numbing the area, the dentist reshapes the supporting teeth to make room for crowns. Impressions or scans are taken to create the bridge, and the shade is chosen to match your teeth. If decay or old fillings are found during preparation, they are addressed at this stage. The process is explained beforehand so you know what to expect.
Wearing a temporary
A temporary bridge is usually placed to protect the prepared teeth and fill the space while the permanent bridge is made. Temporaries are not as strong, so avoid sticky or hard foods on that side. If it loosens or breaks, contact the office so it can be recemented, as prepared teeth can become sensitive without coverage.
Fitting the bridge
The second visit completes the restoration.
Checking the fit and bite
When the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary is removed and the new bridge is tried in. The dentist checks the fit around the gums, how it meets the opposing teeth and its appearance. Adjustments are made if needed. Let the dentist know if anything feels tight, high or uncomfortable before it is permanently cemented.
Cementing in place
Once you and the dentist are satisfied, the bridge is cemented. Some sensitivity in the supporting teeth can occur for a short time. Your bite should feel even. If the bite feels high after the numbness wears off or pain develops, contact the office so the bridge can be checked and adjusted promptly.
Looking after it
Plaque control keeps the supporting teeth healthy.
Cleaning under the bridge
Food and plaque can collect under the false tooth, so cleaning beneath it is essential. Floss threaders, super floss or small interdental brushes can help. Ask the hygienist to show you a method that suits your bridge. Neglecting this area can lead to decay on the supporting teeth or gum inflammation around them.
Regular reviews
Attend regular checkups and cleanings so the bridge, supporting teeth and gums can be checked. Report any looseness, bad taste or gum swelling around the bridge. With good care, many bridges serve for years, though they may eventually need replacing. The dentist can monitor wear and discuss future options when needed.
Planning your appointment
Plan your bridge appointments from Selkirk.
Contact our Port Dover office to book an assessment for the missing tooth. Ask how many visits are expected and the approximate time between them so you can plan travel.
Bring any previous X-rays or records of the missing tooth and mention if you have considered implants or dentures before.
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 dental bridge last?
Many bridges last for years with good care, but lifespan varies. Cleaning under the bridge, regular checkups and avoiding very hard foods help. The supporting teeth need to stay healthy for the bridge to remain stable.
Is a bridge better than an implant?
It depends. A bridge avoids surgery but involves preparing neighbouring teeth. An implant does not affect neighbours but needs adequate bone and a longer process. The dentist will explain which suits your situation better.
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
Most people eat comfortably once adjusted. Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage it. Chew carefully at first and let the office know if the bite feels uneven or uncomfortable.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Use floss threaders, super floss or interdental brushes to clean beneath the false tooth. Ask the hygienist to demonstrate a method. Daily cleaning helps protect the supporting teeth and gums from decay and inflammation.
What if my temporary bridge falls off?
Contact the office so it can be recemented. Keep the temporary if possible. The prepared teeth may be sensitive without coverage, so avoid very hot or cold foods until it is replaced.
Other ways to replace a tooth
General Dentistry →Dental Implants →
Implants can replace missing teeth, but planning, bone health and healing time all matter. Selkirk patients can start the conversation in Port Dover.
Dentures →
Dentures can restore chewing and appearance after tooth loss. Selkirk patients can explore removable options and what adjusting involves at our Port Dover office.