Fill Gaps Caused by 1 to 3 Missing Teeth
Enhance the appearance and health of your smile with a dental bridge, designed to fill gaps caused by missing teeth. A dental bridge uses a synthetic tooth supported by dental implants, your natural teeth, or a combination of both, effectively concealing empty spaces. Also known as a “fixed partial denture,” bridges are securely bonded or cemented into place, requiring no removal during sleep or cleaning routines.
Addressing missing teeth is crucial not only for cosmetic reasons but for your overall oral health. Gaps can interfere with speech and chewing, and if left unaddressed, may allow surrounding teeth to shift out of alignment.
The Advantages of Dental Bridges
The loss of one or more teeth can lead to self-consciousness and discomfort. However, choosing a dental bridge not only restores the natural appearance and feel of your smile but also offers significant long-term benefits for your remaining teeth and jawbone health. Here’s a summary of the advantages of opting for a dental bridge:
Comfort
The benefits of a dental bridge are immediately noticeable, greatly improving both your physical and emotional well-being. You’ll regain a natural look and feel, alleviating the discomfort caused by missing teeth. Speaking and eating, which may have been painful or difficult, become easier. A dental bridge provides a durable, long-lasting solution to these issues, with proper care ensuring it can last over ten years.
Dental Health
Your teeth work together to support each other and maintain your facial structure. Missing teeth can disrupt this balance, affecting your bite and causing neighbouring teeth to shift. A dental bridge helps stabilize the surrounding teeth, reducing the risk of decay, gum disease, jaw pain, and TMJ disorder caused by misalignment.
Bone Health
Maintaining optimal oral health is key to preserving the health of your jawbones. When teeth are missing, bone loss can occur, weakening the foundation of your mouth. By securing a dental bridge, you can slow down the rate of bone loss, protecting the integrity of your jawbone and maintaining its structure.
Cost of a Dental Bridge in Calgary
The cost of a dental bridge can vary greatly depending on several factors. With a typical insurance plan, the cost for a dental bridge typically ranges from $800 to $1200 or more. However, without insurance, the cost can be around $2000 to $3000 or more, depending on individual circumstances.
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Dental Bridge:
- Type of Bridge and Material: The specific type of bridge (e.g., traditional, cantilever, or implant-supported) and the materials chosen (porcelain, ceramic, or metal) can significantly affect the cost.
- Number of Missing Teeth: The number of teeth that need to be replaced will impact the complexity of the procedure and the materials required.
- Procedure Location and Complexity: The location of the missing teeth and the complexity of the procedure may influence the cost. Some cases may require additional treatments or specialized expertise.
- Condition of Adjacent Teeth: The condition of the neighbouring teeth is also considered. If additional work is needed to prepare them, it can affect the overall cost.
- Required Supplies and Equipment: The materials, tools, and diagnostic tests required for your specific treatment plan will contribute to the total cost.
Please note, providing an accurate quote over the phone is not possible due to the personalized nature of each dental treatment. It is essential to consult with a dentist and undergo an oral exam to explore all treatment options and receive a precise cost estimate. If you have dental insurance, we are happy to help you obtain a quote for submission to your provider, so you can determine your out-of-pocket expenses before proceeding.
Get in touch with us today
to arrange an initial consultation and examination.
During your consultation, we will thoroughly assess various aspects, including your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as the alignment and condition of your bite. Our goal is to comprehensively evaluate the overall appearance and functionality of your entire mouth. By gathering a complete understanding of your oral health and aesthetic concerns, we can tailor a treatment plan specifically designed to meet your needs and help you achieve your desired outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
A dental bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer, with the right care and attention. The longevity of your bridge depends on several factors, including the type of materials used, your oral habits, and how well you maintain your overall dental health. To maximize its lifespan, it’s important to:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly, especially around the bridge, helps prevent decay and gum disease.
- Attend regular dental check-ups: Routine visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of the bridge and surrounding teeth, making adjustments if necessary.
- Avoid harmful habits: Refrain from biting hard objects, grinding your teeth, or using your teeth as tools, as these actions can damage both your natural teeth and the bridge.
With proper care, a dental bridge can provide a long-lasting, functional, and aesthetic solution to restore your smile.
A semi-permanent bridge (often called a fixed partial denture) is bonded to existing teeth or dental implants. Unlike dentures, which are removable, bridges stay in place. These consist only of teeth, while dentures have additional pink gum-like material. A permanent bridge is designed to provide a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, offering security and durability.
A partial denture, in contrast, is removable and used to replace one or more missing teeth, filling gaps in the smile without the need for surrounding teeth to be crowned.
Yes, there are different types of dental bridges, such as traditional bridges (secured by crowns on adjacent teeth), cantilever bridges (used when there is only one adjacent tooth for support), and Maryland bridges (held in place by a framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth).
Typically, getting a dental bridge requires two or more visits. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth (abutments) and take impressions. A temporary bridge may be placed. During the second visit, the permanent bridge will be fitted and installed.
Not everyone is a candidate for a dental bridge. Your dentist will assess your oral health, the condition of the adjacent teeth, and the strength of your jawbone before recommending this option. In some cases, dental implants or dentures may be more suitable.
Yes, dental bridges allow you to eat most foods comfortably. However, it’s best to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may damage or dislodge the bridge.
While the terms “dental bridge” and “crown” are sometimes used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. Crowns are used to cover damaged, fractured, or worn teeth to provide strength and protection. Dental bridges are specifically designed to replace missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth or dental implants.
