Questions about Your Dental Bridge

Barrie, Ontario - Canada

Can I get a dental bridge in one office visit?

Dental bridges are not a one-size-fits-all type of dental restoration. Each component is made in a dental laboratory exactly to your specifications. Therefore it is usually takes two office visits to complete the dental bridge process.

Dr. Adam Chapnick will use your first office visit to prep your abutment teeth and determine the exact size, shape and color to make the dental crowns and artificial tooth. He takes a mold of the area and sends all of the information on to the Empress dental laboratory. You will have the use of a temporary bridge while your permanent one is being created.

After about two weeks you will come back to have your permanent dental bridge implemented into your smile. We will only cement it into place if it is a perfect match on all components: size, shape, color, fit and function.

Will my dental bridge last forever?

This answer depends on how well you care for your teeth and practice good dental hygiene. Dental bridges can last up to 15 years or more for some patients. Because the adjacent teeth are fitted with a dental crown by the removal of tooth enamel, those teeth will always need to be "crowned," even if you decide not to replace your dental bridge in the future.

Do I have to worry about cleaning around my artificial tooth?

Yes. Just because you have an artificial tooth that is decay resistant, your gums are still capable of acquiring gum disease. You must keep your anchor teeth healthy as well, as they are the foundation of your dental bridge. Dr. Chapnick will recommend that you keep a regular dental maintenance program up to date by getting professional cleanings every six months and brushing and flossing daily. These dental check-ups will also allow us to examine your dental bridge and ensure it is serving its function.

How does a dental implant differ from a dental bridge?

Dental implants also solve the problem of a missing tooth. Rather than relying on the adjacent teeth as anchors, dental implants are tooth root replacements made of titanium screws. The false tooth sits on top of the dental implants and is a "stand-alone" dental restoration. This process takes considerably longer than a dental bridge, but the end result is more permanent and healthier for your overall smile.

How can I decide which tooth replacement option is best for me?

Dr. Chapnick helps patients answer this question all the time. He takes time to analyze the current state of your smile with a full examination and discusses in detail which options he feels are the best course of action. Armed with the advantages and disadvantages of each tooth replacement procedure option, you can make your own informed decision.

If you live in the Barrie, area and would like to arrange a dental bridge consultation with cosmetic dentist Dr. Adam Chapnick, please contact our office today.