Dental Bridges Guelph

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are custom-made dental appliances that replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are held in place by dental crowns attached to the adjacent teeth or implants. Bridges can restore the appearance of your smile and your ability to chew and speak properly. They also help maintain the shape of your face and prevent the remaining teeth from drifting out of position. Dental bridges can last many years with proper care, making them a durable and effective solution for missing teeth.

Conditions Treated with Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are versatile in addressing a range of dental issues. Some of the conditions treated with the help of dental bridges include:

Replacement of one or more missing teeth
Prevention of remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Restoration of proper chewing and speaking abilities
Maintenance of the natural shape of the face
Upgrading from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

Types of Dental Bridges Available in Guelph

Traditional Bridges: This is the most common type of dental bridge and involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between.
Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This bridge type supports the pontic from one end only.
Maryland Bridges: Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this type involves attaching the pontic to the back of the adjacent teeth using metal or porcelain bands. It’s often used for front teeth because it requires less alteration of the adjacent teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges are supported by dental iplants rather than crowns or frameworks. Each missing tooth has an implant, which holds the bridge in place. This option is considered the most stable and durable.

Are Dental Bridges Permanent?

Dental bridges are not considered permanent in the sense that they will last a lifetime without the need for repair or replacement. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can last many years—typically 5 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are crucial to extending the lifespan of a dental bridge.

Who Is a Good Candidate For Dental Bridges?

Good candidates for dental bridges are individuals who are missing one or more teeth and are looking to restore the functionality and aesthetics of their smile. To be considered for a dental bridge, a patient must have healthy teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth, as these will support the bridge. Additionally, good oral hygiene practices are crucial for the longevity of the dental bridge.

Health of Adjacent Teeth

The adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth, must be strong enough to support the dental bridge. During your consultation, your dentist will assess the health of these teeth to ensure they can securely anchor the bridge.

Jawbone Density

For individuals considering an implant-supported bridge, sufficient jawbone density is required to anchor the dental implant. If bone loss has occurred, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary before proceeding with the bridge installation.

Oral Hygiene

Prospective candidates must commit to maintaining excellent oral hygiene. The success and longevity of dental bridges depend significantly on the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential.

Overall Health

General health also plays a role in determining candidacy for dental bridges. Conditions that affect healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may impact your suitability for the procedure.

Are Dental Bridges Covered By Insurance?

Coverage for dental bridges by insurance varies significantly depending on the specifics of your dental plan. Many dental insurance plans provide some level of coverage for dental bridges, considering them as major restorative procedures. However, the extent of coverage can differ, with some plans covering a portion of the cost, while others may cover the procedure up to a certain percentage.

It’s important to review your insurance policy or speak directly with your insurance provider to understand what aspects of the dental bridge procedure are covered. Factors such as the type of bridge selected, the materials used, and the reason for the bridge (such as whether it’s deemed medically necessary) can all influence coverage.

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation at Hanlon Creek Dental

Ready to take the next step towards a complete and confident smile? Contact Hanlon Creek Dental today to schedule your dental bridge consultation. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care and the best possible outcomes for our patients. Call us at (548) 855-0283 or visit our dental clinic in Guelph, ON, to learn more about how dental bridges can benefit you.

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