Assessment
We examine the gap, supporting teeth, gums and bite and review digital imaging. We then explain whether a bridge is appropriate and discuss alternatives.
Replace Missing Teeth
Dental Bridges in Toronto
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with a fixed restoration supported by neighbouring teeth or dental implants. At Belman Dental Centre in Midtown Toronto, we assess your bite, supporting teeth and goals to help you compare bridge, implant and removable options.
How a dental bridge works
A traditional bridge uses crowns on the teeth beside a gap to support an artificial replacement tooth. Other designs may be considered depending on the location of the missing tooth, the condition of neighbouring teeth and the available support.
Replacing a missing tooth can improve chewing and speech and help maintain the relationship between remaining teeth. Every case is planned individually; healthy supporting teeth and gums are important for a predictable result.
- Replace one or more adjacent missing teeth
- Restore chewing contact across the gap
- Provide a fixed alternative to a removable partial denture
- Shape and shade the restoration to complement your smile
Comparing replacement options
A bridge is one option for replacing a missing tooth. Dental implants and removable partial dentures may also be appropriate, and each approach has different requirements, advantages and maintenance needs.
We examine the neighbouring teeth, gums, bone and bite, use digital imaging when needed and explain the effect each option may have on surrounding structures. Belman Dental Centre offers implant placement and restoration; specialist referral may be recommended for some cases.
- Condition of the teeth beside the gap
- Gum and bone health
- Bite forces and location of the missing tooth
- Patient preferences, timing and maintenance needs
Bridge treatment and maintenance
For a tooth-supported bridge, the supporting teeth are prepared and digitally scanned or impressed. A temporary restoration protects the area while a dental laboratory creates the final bridge. We then check the fit, appearance and bite before securing it.
Daily cleaning beneath the replacement tooth and around the supporting crowns is essential. We can demonstrate floss threaders, interdental brushes or other aids suited to your bridge. Routine examinations help monitor the bridge, supporting teeth and gums.
- Prepare supporting teeth with local anaesthetic
- Take a digital scan or impression
- Use a temporary restoration during laboratory fabrication
- Clean beneath the bridge every day
Personalized Care
Could This Be Right for You?
A conversation and clinical assessment are the best way to understand your options. People often ask about dental bridges when they are experiencing one or more of the following situations.
- One or more missing teeth affecting chewing, speech or appearance
- Healthy teeth beside the gap that may be suitable for support
- A preference for a fixed replacement rather than a removable prosthesis
- An existing bridge that feels loose, damaged or difficult to clean
- Interest in comparing a bridge with dental implants or dentures
What to Expect
Your Care, Step by Step
Treatment planning
We review the bridge design, materials, timing, maintenance and any preparatory treatment. Recommendations and fees are confirmed after this assessment.
Preparation and records
For a tooth-supported bridge, the adjacent teeth are prepared with local anaesthetic. We take a digital scan or impression and place a temporary restoration.
Fitting and maintenance
We verify the final bridge’s fit, contacts, appearance and bite before placement. Follow-up and routine hygiene visits help protect the supporting teeth and gums.
Planning Your Care
Bridge fees and payment
Fees vary with the number of teeth being replaced, bridge design, materials and any preparatory care. We explain the recommended treatment and associated fees after examining the gap, supporting teeth and bite.
Our team can discuss insurance claim procedures and available financing options. Coverage and reimbursement depend on your individual plan and benefits.
Good to Know
Dental Bridges FAQs
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. A traditional bridge is supported by crowns on neighbouring teeth, while other designs may use different support depending on the clinical situation.
How is a bridge different from a dental implant?
A tooth-supported bridge relies on neighbouring teeth, while an implant-supported restoration uses one or more implants placed in the jawbone. Suitability, treatment time and maintenance differ, so we compare the options after examining your teeth, gums, bone and bite.
How do I clean beneath a bridge?
The area beneath the replacement tooth must be cleaned daily. Floss threaders, interdental brushes or a water flosser may help, depending on the bridge design. Our team will demonstrate techniques suited to your restoration.
Will a dental bridge look natural?
The replacement tooth and supporting crowns can be shaped and shade-matched to complement your natural teeth. The final appearance depends on the location, materials, available space and surrounding tissues.
What should I do if my bridge feels loose or damaged?
Contact Belman Dental Centre promptly and avoid chewing on the affected side. We will assess the bridge and supporting teeth to determine whether re-cementing, repair or replacement is appropriate.
Ready When You Are
Book a dental bridge assessment
To compare fixed replacement options for a missing tooth, call 1-416-486-1136 or request an appointment at Belman Dental Centre, 1881 Yonge St., Suite 403. Recommendations, timing and fees depend on an in-person assessment.