Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
Dental Bridges in London, Ontario
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with a fixed, tooth-coloured prosthesis. It is cemented in place, so unlike a partial denture you don’t take it out to clean it or at night. A bridge fills the gap in your smile, lets you chew properly on that side again, and stops the teeth around the gap from drifting.
At Lunar Smile Dentistry we plan bridges alongside the other ways to replace a tooth, so you can compare them before you decide.
How a bridge works
A traditional bridge is one solid piece made of three or more parts:
- Abutments: crowns that fit over the healthy teeth on each side of the gap
- Pontic: the false tooth (or teeth) that sits in the gap, joined to the crowns
Because the bridge is held by the teeth beside the gap, those teeth need to be shaped for crowns. That’s the main trade-off compared with an implant, which stands on its own.
Types of bridges
- Traditional bridge: crowns on the teeth on both sides of the gap, with the false tooth between. The most common type.
- Cantilever bridge: held by a crown on one side only. Used in a few situations where there is a healthy tooth on just one side.
- Bonded (Maryland) bridge: a false tooth with small wings bonded to the backs of the neighbouring teeth, so they need little or no shaping. Mostly used for front teeth with a light bite.
- Implant-supported bridge: crowns on dental implants instead of natural teeth. Used to replace several teeth in a row without touching healthy teeth.
Why replace a missing tooth?
A gap can seem harmless, especially at the back. Over months and years, though:
- the teeth on either side tip or drift into the space
- the tooth above or below can grow down or up into the gap
- your bite changes, which can strain other teeth and the jaw joint
- food traps more easily in the uneven spaces, raising the risk of decay and gum disease
- chewing shifts to one side
- the jawbone where the tooth was slowly shrinks
Replacing the tooth early keeps the rest of your bite stable and makes every option easier.
Bridge, implant or partial denture?
| Bridge | Implant | Partial denture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed in place | Yes | Yes | No, removable |
| Neighbouring teeth | Shaped for crowns | Untouched | Clasps rest on them |
| Treatment time | About 2–3 weeks | Several months (healing) | A few weeks |
| Surgery | No | Yes, a minor procedure | No |
| Upfront cost | Moderate | Highest | Lowest |
A bridge is often a good fit when the teeth beside the gap already have large fillings or crowns, since covering them with crowns helps them too. An implant is often better when those teeth are healthy and untouched. For many people a denture is the simplest first step. We’ll go through the options for your mouth at your exam.
What getting a bridge involves
- Exam and planning. We check the teeth beside the gap, your gums and your bite, and take x-rays to make sure the supporting teeth are healthy enough to carry the bridge.
- Preparation. With the area frozen, we shape the supporting teeth and take a digital scan or impression.
- Temporary bridge. You wear a temporary bridge while a dental lab makes your final one, matched to the shade of your other teeth.
- Fitting. About two to three weeks later, we check the fit, the bite and the colour, then cement the bridge in place.
Caring for your bridge
The false tooth sits just above the gum, so food and plaque can collect underneath. Clean under it every day with a floss threader, superfloss or a small interdental brush; we’ll show you how. Keep up regular check-ups and cleanings so we can watch the supporting teeth, which still need protecting from decay at the gum line.
With good care, bridges commonly last many years.
Cost and coverage
Bridges are usually covered in part by dental plans as a major service. Coverage under the Canadian Dental Care Plan depends on your situation and may need approval first. Our fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide, and we check your coverage and give you the cost before treatment. See financial arrangements and CDCP at our office.
Common questions
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The teeth are frozen while we prepare them, so you shouldn’t feel pain. They may be a little sensitive for a few days afterwards.
How long does a bridge last?
With good cleaning and regular check-ups, bridges commonly last many years. The most common reason a bridge fails is decay on a supporting tooth, which is why cleaning under it matters.
Can a bridge be placed right after an extraction?
Usually we wait for the gum and bone to heal for a few weeks to a few months so the bridge fits the healed shape. A temporary option can fill the gap in the meantime.
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
Yes. Once it’s cemented, you can eat most foods. Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could stress or loosen it.
Book a consultation in London
Missing a tooth, or have an old bridge that’s loose or worn? Book online or call 226-884-2573. We’re open six days a week, with evening appointments until 9 pm on weekdays.
Part of our restorative dentistry services in London, Ontario. See all dental services.