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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Dental Bridges in Silver Hill
A fixed bridge can fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Silver Hill patients can compare bridges with other options and learn how they are cared for.
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A bridge relies on the teeth beside the gap for support.
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 partial denture, a bridge is fixed and does not come out. It can restore chewing, prevent nearby teeth from drifting and fill a visible gap in your smile.
If you are in Silver Hill and missing a tooth, the dentist at our Port Dover office can explain whether a bridge is a sensible choice. The health of the supporting teeth, your gums and your bite all factor into the recommendation, along with how a bridge compares with an implant or partial denture.
Is a bridge right
The neighbouring teeth play a central role in the decision.
When a bridge is often recommended
A bridge may be a good fit when the teeth on either side of the gap are healthy and strong enough to support crowns, or when those teeth already have large fillings that would benefit from crowning anyway. It can also suit people who prefer a fixed option but are not candidates for implants or would rather avoid surgery.
Factors that may favour another option
If the adjacent teeth are untouched and healthy, preparing them for crowns means removing sound enamel, which some people prefer to avoid. Gum disease, weak supporting teeth or long gaps may make a bridge less predictable. An implant or partial denture may be discussed as alternatives, each with its own trade-offs.
Types of bridges
Bridges come in several designs to suit different gaps.
Traditional and cantilever bridges
A traditional bridge uses crowns on teeth on both sides of the gap to hold the replacement tooth. A cantilever bridge is supported on only one side and is used in specific situations. Some front teeth gaps may suit a resin-bonded design attached to the back of neighbouring teeth. The dentist will explain which design fits your gap.
Implant-supported bridges
When several teeth are missing in a row, implants can sometimes be placed to support a bridge without relying on natural teeth. This avoids preparing healthy neighbours but involves surgery and healing time. The dentist can outline whether you might be a candidate and whether a referral or additional assessment is needed.
Making the bridge
A bridge is typically completed over two main visits.
Preparing the supporting teeth
After freezing, the supporting teeth are shaped to make room for crowns. Impressions or digital scans are taken and the shade is selected to match your teeth. A temporary bridge is usually placed to protect the prepared teeth and fill the gap while the permanent bridge is made at a dental laboratory.
Fitting and cementing the bridge
At the next appointment, the temporary is removed and the permanent bridge is tried in. The dentist checks the fit, appearance and bite, making adjustments as needed. Once everything is right, the bridge is cemented in place. You will be shown how to clean under the replacement tooth.
Caring for it
Keeping the area clean helps the bridge last.
Cleaning under and around the bridge
Food and plaque can collect under the replacement tooth, so cleaning beneath it every day is essential. Floss threaders, small interdental brushes or water flossers can help reach the space. The hygienist can show you a technique that works for your bridge and your dexterity.
Protecting the supporting teeth
The supporting teeth can still develop decay at the edges of their crowns or gum problems around them. Regular checkups and cleanings help catch issues early. Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods, and mention grinding, which can place extra stress on a bridge, so protection can be considered.
Planning your appointment
Starting from Silver Hill
Contact our Port Dover office to arrange an assessment for a missing tooth. Mention how long the tooth has been missing and whether you are interested in fixed or removable options.
Bring any X-rays or records from previous dental work. Preparing for a bridge usually involves at least two separate visits.
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
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, depending on the health of the supporting teeth, your home care and your bite. Regular checkups help monitor the crowns and gums so problems can be addressed early.
Is a bridge better than an implant?
Neither is better for everyone. A bridge avoids surgery but involves preparing neighbouring teeth. An implant stands alone but requires surgery and healing time. The dentist can compare them based on your situation.
Will a bridge feel natural?
Most people adapt quickly once a bridge is fitted. It may feel slightly different at first, especially when cleaning underneath. Contact the office if the bite feels uneven or you notice soreness.
Can I get a bridge if I have gum disease?
Gum disease usually needs treatment first, since healthy gums and bone are needed to support the bridge and neighbouring teeth over time. The dentist will discuss how to stabilize your gums before planning a bridge.
What happens if a supporting tooth gets a cavity?
Decay at the edge of a supporting crown needs prompt attention. Depending on its size, it may be repaired or the bridge may need replacing. Regular checkups make early detection more likely.
Alternatives for replacing teeth
General Dentistry →Dental Implants →
Implants replace a missing tooth root with a post that supports a crown or denture. Silver Hill patients can learn about candidacy, healing and long-term care.
Dentures →
Thinking about dentures for the first time? Silver Hill residents can learn what everyday life with dentures is like, how they are made and cared for.