Dental Bridges in Maple Ridge
Are tooth deficiencies affecting your ability to chew, speak, or smile confidently?
Did you know that nearly 6.4% of Canadians have lost all their natural teeth, with even more experiencing partial tooth loss?
Westgate Dental & Implant Centre’s dental bridges offer a reliable solution for restoring bite function and aesthetics. In Maple Ridge, they are becoming an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking to reduce the risk of bone resorption and gum disease, common concerns with missing teeth.
What are Dental Bridges?
They are a component of restorative dentistry, intended to substitute one or more missing teeth by creating a “bridge” between adjacent ones. They consist of an artificial tooth, known as pontics. They are anchored to the surrounding natural area or dental implants, referred to as abutments.
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
Traditional Bridge
The most commonly used type, which consists of one or more pontics held in place by crowns cemented onto the abutment teeth on either side of the gap.
Cantilever Bridge
Comparable to a traditional dental bridge but it’s supported by a crown on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. A cantilever dental bridge is advised when only one adjacent tooth is available to support it.
Maryland Bridges
Maryland dental bridge, also known as resin-bonded bridges, consists of a pontic anchored by a metal or porcelain. A Maryland bridge includes wings on either side, which are bonded to the back of the adjacent natural area using a resin.
Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge differs from other types as they’re anchored to a dental implant rather than natural ones. This is used when multiple teeth are missing and the patient’s jawbone is healthy enough to support the implants.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
A teeth bridge is a great way to replace a missing tooth for several reasons:
Restoring Oral Functionality
One of their primary benefits is restoring chewing efficiency. Tooth voids can impact your ability to chew food properly, leading to digestive issues and limiting your diet to softer foods.
Edentulous areas can cause speech impediments, such as slurring or whistling. By filling in the gaps, they help restore normal speech patterns, allowing you to speak more clearly and confidently.
Aesthetics
They are shaped to match your natural teeth, providing a cosmetic answer that enhances our patients’ smiles.
Materials like all-ceramic or porcelain fused to metal are chosen as they mimic the colour, translucency, and texture of natural teeth.
Preventing Shifting and Bite Concerns
When a tooth is lost, the remaining teeth tend to reposition towards the gap. This leads to misalignment and bite problems (malocclusion).
This shifting can cause a domino effect, leading to further complications, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Patients also suffer from increased susceptibility to decay and gum disease.
Long-Term Oral Health
Gaps left by missing teeth can create pockets where food debris and bacteria accumulate, increasing the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. By filling these gaps, you reduce the risk of plaque buildup and subsequent gum disease.
Durability and Cost-Effectiveness
With adequate care, they can last between 10 to 15 years, or even longer in some cases. Compared to other replacements, such as implants, they are more affordable while still offering functionality and aesthetics.
Our Dental Bridge Procedure in Maple Ridge
Initial Consultation and Assessment
First, our dentists ask a series of questions for an in-depth patient assessment.
Questions Asked During the Consultation
Medical History
- Have you had any recent medical conditions or surgeries?
- Are you presently taking any medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements?
Oral History
- Have you experienced any recent issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease?
- Do you have a history of restorations or treatments?
Specific Concerns
- What are your main concerns regarding appearance and functionality?
- Are you experiencing any discomfort or functional issues related to your missing teeth?
Lifestyle and Preferences
- Do you have any preferences regarding the materials used (e.g., porcelain, metal)?
- Are there specific functional or aesthetic goals you hope to achieve with the prosthesis?
Oral Hygiene
- How do you currently maintain your oral hygiene?
- Are there any difficulties you face with brushing or flossing?
Treatment Planning
Once the assessment is complete, our dentists develop a targeted treatment plan based on your needs and preferences.
- Selection of type based on factors such as the missing teeth’ location and the condition of adjacent ones.
- Selecting materials between porcelain fused to metal (PFM), all-ceramic, or implant-supported.
- Determining the extent of preparation required for the abutment tooth or planning for the placement of implants.
Tooth Preparation
Procedure | Description | Duration |
Tooth Reduction | Reshaping of the abutment | 1-2 hours |
Impression Taking | Creation of detailed moulds or digital scans | 30 minutes |
Bite Registration | Capturing the bite relationship | 15 minutes |
Temporary Placement
While the permanent is being fabricated, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared molars and maintain functionality.
Permanent Fabrication
The impressions and bite registration are sent to a laboratory where the permanent one is custom-crafted. Lab fabrication time takes 2-3 weeks, depending on the intricacy of the design and the laboratory’s workload.
Final Placement
Once the permanent one is ready, you will revisit our clinic for the final placement.
Procedure | Description | Duration |
Trial Fitting | Ensuring proper fit and occlusion | 30-45 minutes |
Adjustments | Making necessary adjustments | 15-30 minutes |
Cementation | Permanent bonding | 30 minutes |
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
Oral Hygiene Practices
Brushing
- Brush at least twice a day.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to prevent damage.
- Opt for fluoride toothpaste to help prevent decay.
Flossing
Flossing daily removes food debris and plaque.
And For Your Diet
Foods to Eat
- Cooked vegetables, soft fruits (e.g., bananas, avocados), eggs, and yogurt.
- Whole grains (e.g., oatmeal), lean proteins (e.g., chicken, fish), and soft cheeses.
Foods to Avoid
- Nuts, hard candies, ice cubes, and raw vegetables.
- Caramels, taffy, and chewing gum.
- Sugary sodas, candies, and pastries.
Don’t Forget Your Regular Dental Visits
Schedule check-ups every 6 to 12 months. During these visits, our Maple Ridge dentist examines the prosthesis, checks for signs of wear or damage, and cleans the area around it.
Professional cleanings are performed every 6 months. Our dentists perform a deep clean, removing plaque and tartar buildup.
Long-Term Care
- Avoid smoking or using nicotine products, as these can contribute to gum disease and reduce the lifespan of the prosthesis.
- If you have a habit of grinding or clenching, discuss it with our dentist. A custom night guard may be recommended.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Bridges in Maple Ridge
If you’re looking for a reliable, long-term solution to substitute missing units and restore your oral health, Westgate Dental & Implant Centre specializes in cosmetic dentistry designed for functionality, aesthetics, and overall oral health.
Our dentists work to restore and maintain your natural tooth appearance with precise diagnostics and personalized treatment plans. Experience the proper care and take the starting point towards a confident, fully functional smile.
Book an appointment now for your assessment and discover how our treatments can reshape your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the success rate of bridges compare to other tooth replacement options?
They have a success rate of approximately 90% to 95% over a 10-year period. This success rate is comparable to that of implants, which also have a high success rate, often cited at 95% to 98%.
The choice between a prosthesis and other tooth replacement options should be based on individual needs, oral health conditions, and budget considerations.
What is the typical healing time after receiving a dental bridge?
After receiving one, the initial healing period lasts between 1 to 2 weeks. During this time, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, which should subside as the gums adjust to the new prosthetic.
Full adaptation and complete gum healing takes 4 to 6 weeks. Adhering to post-procedure care instructions and attending follow-up appointments will help ensure your recovery.
Are there any special cleaning devices recommended for maintaining bridges?
Yes, several devices can help maintain them:
- Interdental Brushes: Designed to clean between molars and around the prosthesis. These brushes help remove food particles and plaque.
- Floss Threaders: Useful for flossing around the prosthetic, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
- Water Flossers: These devices use a stream of surging water to remove debris and plaque from around the appliance and between enamel.
- Antimicrobial Mouth Rinses: Helps reduce plaque and bacteria, promoting overall oral health.
Can bridges be used in conjunction with other treatments?
Yes, they can be blended with other treatments to improve overall oral health:
- Implants: Implants can support the prosthesis, especially when replacing multiple molars or when additional stability is needed.
- Orthodontics: If misalignment is present, experts may suggest orthodontic treatment to ensure proper alignment and function.
- Gum Treatment: Gum disease or other issues must be treated prior to placement to ensure a healthy foundation.