Missing teeth can make you feel uncomfortable when you smile or eat. Many people wonder if dental bridges can help when they have lost more than one tooth. The good news is that dental bridges in Toronto are a proven treatment for multiple missing teeth. Let’s talk about how they work and what you can expect.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills the gap where your natural teeth are missing. Dental bridges attach to the teeth on both sides of the gap. These supporting teeth are called abutment teeth.
Your dentist near you creates a bridge that looks and feels like your real teeth. The bridge sits in your mouth and does the same job as your natural teeth.
Can Dental Bridges Replace Multiple Missing Teeth?
Yes, dental bridges replace multiple missing teeth very well. Here’s what you should know:
Types of bridges for multiple teeth:
- Traditional bridges – These work best when you are missing 2-3 teeth in a row. The bridge connects to your natural teeth on both sides.
- Implant-supported bridges – When you are missing many teeth, dentists use dental implants as anchors instead of natural teeth. This makes the bridge very strong.
- Cantilever bridges – These attach to teeth on only one side. Dentists use them in exceptional cases.
The number of missing teeth affects which type of bridge your dentist will recommend. Most bridges can replace up to 3-4 teeth at once. If you are missing more teeth, your dentist might suggest implants or another solution.
How Does the Bridge Procedure Work?
Getting a dental bridge usually takes two visits to your dental clinic:
First Visit:
- Your dentist examines your mouth and takes X-rays
- The dentist reshapes the teeth next to the gap (abutment teeth)
- Impressions are made of your teeth
- You get a temporary bridge to wear
Second Visit:
- The dentist removes your temporary bridge
- Your permanent bridge is fitted and adjusted
- The dentist cements the bridge in place
The whole process is not painful. Your dentist uses numbing medicine to keep you comfortable.
Are Dental Bridges Permanent?
Many people ask, “Are dental bridges permanent?” The answer is both yes and no. Let me explain.
Dental bridges are designed to last a long time, but they are not permanent like dental implants. Here’s what this means:
How long bridges last:
- Most dental bridges last 5-15 years
- Some bridges last even longer with good care
- The bridge stays in your mouth and does not come out (it’s cemented)
Why bridges need replacement:
- Normal wear and tear over time
- Damage to the supporting teeth
- Changes in your jaw bone
- Decay under the bridge
You cannot remove the bridge yourself. Only your dentist near you can take it out if needed. In this way, the bridge is “permanent” during daily use. However, it may need to be replaced after many years.
Taking Care of Your Dental Bridge
Good care helps your bridge last longer. Here’s what you should do:
- Brush your teeth twice daily
- Use floss threaders to clean under the bridge
- Visit your dental clinic in Toronto for regular checkups
- Avoid chewing very hard foods
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages
Benefits of Getting Dental Bridges
Choosing dental bridges near you offers many advantages:
- Restores your smile and confidence
- Helps you chew food properly
- Maintains your face shape
- Prevents other teeth from shifting
- Improves your speech
- More reasonable than some other options
Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?
The best way to know if bridges work for your situation is to visit a dental professional. Your dentist will:
- Check your oral health
- Examine the teeth next to the gap
- Discuss your options
- Create a treatment plan just for you
Every person’s mouth is different. What works for one patient might not work for another. That’s why seeing a dentist near you is so important.
Conclusion
Dental bridges are an excellent treatment for multiple missing teeth. They can replace several teeth at once and restore your smile. While bridges are not permanent, they can last many years with proper care. The bridge becomes a fixed part of your mouth during daily life.
If you are missing multiple teeth, don’t wait. Schedule a visit to your local dental clinic today. Your dentist can evaluate your needs and help you decide if a bridge is the right choice. With modern dental technology, getting your smile back is easier than ever.
Fill Gaps in Your Smile With Bridges
At Bayview Dental Centre, we help patients replace missing teeth with dental bridges. Our team of experienced dentists provides safe and effective treatment for multiple missing teeth, restoring your smile, and improving chewing and speech. We use modern techniques to ensure your bridge fits comfortably and looks natural.
Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a complete, healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teeth can one bridge replace?
A traditional bridge can replace 2 to 4 teeth in a row. For more missing teeth, your dentist might recommend implant-supported bridges or other solutions.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
No, the procedure is not painful. Your dentist uses numbing medicine during the treatment. You might feel some sensitivity for a few days after, but this goes away quickly.
How much do dental bridges cost?
The cost varies based on the type of bridge, materials used, and how many teeth you need to replace. Your dental clinic can give you an exact estimate during your consultation.
What happens to the teeth under a dental bridge?
The supporting teeth (abutment teeth) are reshaped and crowned. These teeth need to stay healthy to support the bridge. Regular dental checkups help monitor their condition.