Dental Bridges

Bridging the Gap in Your Smile

A missing tooth does more than affect the way you look — it changes how you chew, speak, and even how the rest of your teeth align. When a tooth is lost, neighbouring teeth gradually drift into the empty space, and the bone beneath begins to resorb. A dental bridge addresses all of this by literally bridging the gap: a false tooth (called a pontic) anchored on both sides by crowns placed over the adjacent natural teeth or implants.

🔗 What Exactly Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth fused between two dental crowns. The crowns are cemented onto the healthy teeth on either side of the gap — called abutment teeth — holding the bridge permanently in place. The result looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth.

Dental bridge restoration at Long Lake Family Dentistry

Custom-crafted dental bridges are matched to the colour and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless, confident smile.

At Long Lake Family Dentistry, we fabricate bridges using high-quality porcelain and ceramic materials that closely match the colour, translucency, and shape of your natural teeth. The result is a restoration that blends seamlessly into your smile while restoring full function. With proper care, a well-placed bridge can last 10–15 years or more.

Types of Dental Bridges

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Traditional Bridge

The most common type. Crowns are placed on the two teeth on either side of the gap, with the false tooth suspended between them. Ideal when healthy teeth are present on both sides of the missing tooth.

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Implant-Supported Bridge

Instead of crowns on natural teeth, the bridge is anchored to dental implants placed in the jawbone. Considered the gold standard — no alteration of adjacent teeth and superior bone preservation.

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Maryland Bridge

A conservative option that bonds a metal or porcelain framework to the backs of the adjacent teeth — no crowns required. Best suited for replacing front teeth where biting forces are lower.

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Cantilever Bridge

Used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support. Less common due to the increased load on a single abutment, but can be appropriate in select cases — especially toward the front of the mouth.

Benefits of a Dental Bridge

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Restores your smile and facial appearance

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Restores the ability to chew and speak properly

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Prevents neighbouring teeth from shifting or drifting

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Helps maintain jaw bone structure and bite alignment

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Permanently fixed — no removal required

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More cost-effective than implants in many cases

The Bridge Placement Process

Consultation & Planning

We examine your teeth, review your X-rays, and discuss which type of bridge is best for your situation. We'll explain the procedure, timeline, and cost so you can make an informed decision with no surprises.

Abutment Preparation

The teeth on either side of the gap are gently reshaped to create room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. An impression is taken of the prepared teeth and sent to our dental lab where your custom bridge is crafted.

Temporary Bridge

While your permanent bridge is being made (typically 2–3 weeks), a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance and function in the meantime.

Fitting & Adjustment

When your permanent bridge is ready, we remove the temporary bridge and trial-fit the new restoration. We check the colour match, bite alignment, and margins carefully, making any adjustments needed for a perfect fit.

Permanent Cementation

Once everything looks and feels right, the bridge is permanently cemented in place. We'll show you how to clean around and under the bridge to keep it — and the teeth supporting it — healthy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a dental bridge last? +

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a dental bridge typically lasts 10–15 years or longer. The longevity depends on the health of the supporting teeth, your bite, and how well you clean the area under the bridge. Some patients have bridges that last 20+ years.

Does getting a bridge hurt? +

The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, so you should feel comfortable throughout. Some sensitivity in the prepared teeth is normal for a few days after the abutment shaping appointment, but this is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

Bridge vs. implant — which is better? +

Both are excellent options, but they suit different situations. An implant is generally preferred because it preserves the jawbone and doesn't require alteration of adjacent teeth — but it costs more and takes longer. A bridge is a faster, less invasive, and often more affordable solution that works very well when healthy teeth are available on both sides of the gap. We'll help you decide based on your individual needs.

How do I clean a dental bridge? +

Regular brushing twice daily is essential, but the most important step is cleaning under the pontic (the false tooth) where plaque can accumulate. We recommend using a floss threader, interdental brushes, or a water flosser to clean beneath the bridge daily. Your hygienist will demonstrate the technique at your next cleaning appointment.

Is a dental bridge covered by insurance? +

Dental bridges are considered a major restorative procedure and are typically covered at 50–80% by most dental insurance plans after your deductible, subject to a waiting period. We recommend checking your specific plan details before your appointment. Our team is happy to help you understand your coverage and work out the best financial path forward.