At Spring Hill Dental in The Pas, Manitoba, we believe that everyone deserves to smile with comfort and confidence. That’s where dental bridges come in.
Missing a tooth or several can be more than just a cosmetic concern. It can affect how you chew, speak, and even how you feel about yourself.
If you’ve lost a tooth due to decay, injury, or gum disease, a bridge may be a practical, affordable, and natural-looking solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what bridges are, how they work, and how we support you through the entire process.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration that bridges the gap left by a missing tooth. It’s anchored in place by the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) or by dental implants.
There are a few types of dental bridges:
- Traditional bridges: Supported by natural teeth on each side
- Implant-supported bridges: Anchored by dental implants instead of natural teeth
- Cantilever bridges: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available
- Maryland bridges: Held in place with a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of nearby teeth
At Spring Hill Dental, we help you select the type of bridge that best suits your needs, goals, and budget.
Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
Tooth loss doesn’t just affect how your smile looks; it can also impact your oral health and function in the following ways:
- Chewing difficulty: Missing teeth make eating more difficult and can lead to digestive issues if food isn’t properly chewed.
- Speech changes: Teeth play a vital role in how we pronounce words.
- Tooth shifting: Nearby teeth may move into the space, causing misalignment or bite issues.
- Jawbone loss: Over time, missing teeth can contribute to bone loss in the jaw, especially without proper replacement.
- Confidence loss: Even one missing tooth can significantly impact how people perceive their appearance.
A bridge helps restore your smile’s structure and function and, in many cases, your confidence.
What Is the Process of Getting a Dental Bridge?
At Spring Hill Dental, we take a gentle, step-by-step approach. Here’s what to expect:
1. Consultation and Examination
We begin with a full exam, digital X-rays, and a conversation about your concerns and goals. We’ll determine if a bridge is the best solution or if another treatment, like an implant, might be more suitable.
2. Tooth Preparation
If you’re receiving a traditional bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap are gently reshaped to support the bridge. Impressions are taken to ensure your bridge fits perfectly.
3. Temporary Bridge
You’ll wear a temporary bridge while your custom restoration is being crafted at the dental lab.
4. Permanent Bridge Placement
Once ready, we fit your permanent bridge, adjust it for comfort, and cement it into place. We ensure your bite feels natural and that everything looks seamless.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
Bridges are durable and can last many years with proper care. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily, including under the bridge (we’ll show you how!)
- Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could dislodge or damage the bridge
- See us regularly for cleanings and checkups
We’ll provide you with a personalized care plan and show you tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes to make cleaning easier.
Compassionate Care at Spring Hill Dental
We understand that choosing to replace a tooth can feel overwhelming, emotionally and financially. Our team is here to support you with kindness, transparency, and no-pressure guidance. We’ll talk you through your options, answer every question, and help you make a decision that feels right for you.
Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to live with discomfort or insecurity. We’re here to help restore more than just your smile. We want you to feel whole again.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re curious about dental bridges or think one might be right for you, we’d love to chat. Book a consultation with our caring team at Spring Hill Dental in The Pas, MB.
Experience the Difference
Call us at 204-623-1999 or [book online here].
Let’s keep your smile strong, healthy, and pain-free for the long run. D
