Dental bridges in Vancouver.

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth using a restoration supported by neighbouring teeth or implants. A conventional tooth-supported bridge often uses crowns on the adjacent teeth. A fixed bridge stays in place and is removed by a dentist if necessary. A conventional three-unit bridge typically replaces one missing tooth with a false tooth connected to crowns on either side. Other designs exist; the condition of the supporting teeth determines what is feasible.

A conventional bridge is supported by neighbouring teeth, which may need preparation, and requires cleaning beneath the replacement tooth. An implant is placed in the jaw and has a surgical and healing phase. The choice depends on the health of nearby teeth, bone, bite and your preferences.

A bonded bridge uses an attachment bonded to a supporting tooth rather than the same preparation as a conventional crown-supported bridge. It can be an option in selected situations. The position of the missing tooth and bite influence whether it is suitable. A bonded bridge uses a wing bonded to a supporting tooth and can preserve more tooth tissue in selected cases. Bite forces, available enamel and the location of the gap affect suitability; debonding is one possible complication.

A conventional bridge may require preparation of neighbouring teeth and places additional demands on them. The supporting teeth can still develop decay or gum problems, and the area beneath the replacement tooth needs careful cleaning. Research shows that many conventional bridges last ten years or longer, but longevity varies with the design, supporting teeth and maintenance.

The space beneath the replacement tooth needs a cleaning method that reaches under it. Our team can demonstrate a suitable floss threader, interdental aid or other approach for the design you receive. The supporting teeth and gums still need routine care. Ordinary floss cannot pass down between units that are joined together. A floss threader, suitable interdental brush or another recommended aid must reach beneath the false tooth; we can demonstrate the route in your own mouth.

Not necessarily. We look at the location of the space, your bite, chewing, appearance and the condition of other teeth. Monitoring a space can be reasonable in some situations. The discussion should cover what may change if you choose not to replace it. The decision depends on chewing, appearance, the remaining contacts and whether the space is changing. Tooth movement is possible, but neither movement nor the need for replacement should be assumed without assessing your bite.