dental bridges in london ontario

Missing teeth can affect your confidence and overall oral health. If you're in London, Ontario, dental bridges offer a reliable solution to restore your smile and improve functionality. These custom-made appliances fill the gaps left by missing teeth, helping you chew and speak more effectively.

Dental bridges are a popular choice for many because they're durable and can blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Whether you've lost teeth due to decay, injury, or other reasons, understanding your options for dental bridges in London, Ontario, can set you on the path to a healthier, more confident smile.

Understanding Dental Bridges

Dental bridges replace one or more missing teeth, using artificial teeth anchored by crowns on adjacent teeth or implants. The artificial teeth, called pontics, help restore function and appearance.

Types of Dental Bridges

1. Traditional Bridges
2. Traditional bridges use crowns on either side of the gap. They're the most common type and work well when you have natural teeth next to the missing teeth.
3. Cantilever Bridges
4. Cantilever bridges use an anchor on only one side of the gap. These are useful when there aren't natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
5. Maryland Bridges
6. Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth. This type avoids the need to reshape neighboring teeth.
7. Implant-Supported Bridges
8. Implant-supported bridges use dental implants instead of crowns or frameworks. This option provides stability and is ideal for patients missing several teeth.

Process of Getting a Dental Bridge

• Consultation and Examination
• Dentists evaluate your oral health and discuss the best type of bridge. X-rays and impressions of your teeth may be taken to plan the treatment.
• Preparation
• For traditional, Cantilever, and Maryland bridges, the adjacent teeth need preparation. This involves reshaping these teeth to fit the crowns or framework.
• Impression and Temporary Bridge
• An impression of your teeth is taken to create the bridge. While waiting for the permanent bridge, a temporary one is placed to protect exposed teeth and gums.
• Permanent Bridge Placement
• The dentist fits, adjusts, and cements the permanent bridge. Adjustments ensure comfort and proper alignment.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

1. Restored Smile
2. Dental bridges restore your natural smile by filling gaps left by missing teeth.
3. Improved Functionality
4. They improve chewing and speaking capabilities, making daily activities easier.
5. Maintained Face Shape
6. Bridges help maintain your face shape by preventing bone loss and shifting of remaining teeth.
7. Preventive Measure
8. Filling gaps prevents adjacent teeth from moving out of position, which can lead to further oral health issues.

• Regular Brushing and Flossing
• Maintain oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing. Use special floss for bridges to clean underneath pontics.
• Routine Dental Check-ups
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings to ensure the longevity of your dental bridge.
• Avoid Hard Foods
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, and other hard foods that may damage the bridge.

Understanding dental bridges and their benefits helps you make an informed decision about your oral health. In London, Ontario, several skilled dentists offer various dental bridge options to suit your needs.

Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer different types to suit various oral health needs. Each type has specific uses and benefits.

Traditional Dental Bridges

Traditional dental bridges use crowns on either side of the gap to anchor an artificial tooth. Dentists often recommend them for replacing missing molars. With sturdy support from adjacent teeth, traditional bridges restore chewing function effectively.

Cantilever Dental Bridges

Cantilever dental bridges anchor to only one adjacent tooth. Ideal for areas with minimal bite pressure, these bridges suit front teeth replacements. Ensure the supporting tooth is healthy and strong to prevent complications.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. Often used for front teeth, they offer a conservative option. Unlike traditional bridges, they require minimal alteration of the surrounding teeth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges use dental implants as anchors instead of crowns. This type is highly durable and suitable for multiple missing teeth. Implants provide strong support, closely mimicking natural teeth in function and appearance.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Restore Smile

Dental bridges replace missing teeth, restoring your smile's aesthetics. Missing teeth affect your self-confidence and cause a reluctance to smile. Dental bridges help you regain a natural-looking, complete smile.

Improve Functionality

Dental bridges improve chewing and speaking. Missing teeth make it challenging to chew food properly and can lead to speech impediments. Dental bridges provide stable support, resolving these issues.

Maintain Face Shape

Dental bridges maintain the structure of your face. Missing teeth cause the jawbone to deteriorate over time, impacting your facial structure and causing a sunken appearance. Bridges prevent bone loss by offering necessary support.

Prevent Oral Health Issues

Dental bridges prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place. Missing teeth create gaps, leading to misalignment issues and further dental problems. Bridges fill these gaps, promoting better oral health.

Aesthetic Appeal

Dental bridges blend well with your natural teeth. High-quality materials ensure they look and feel like real teeth. Skilled dentists in London, Ontario customize bridges to match your existing teeth, enhancing your smile.

Durability and Strength

Dental bridges provide long-lasting and sturdy solutions. When maintained correctly, they last several years. Regular dental check-ups ensure the longevity of your dental bridges.

Support Adjacent Teeth

Dental bridges provide support to adjacent teeth. Missing teeth cause surrounding teeth to shift, leading to alignment problems. Bridges stabilize these teeth, promoting overall dental stability.

The Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge

Getting a dental bridge in London, Ontario involves a multi-step process performed by skilled professionals. Understanding each step ensures you know what to expect.

Initial Consultation

Consult a dentist for an initial examination. They evaluate your oral health and discuss your treatment options. X-rays help the dentist assess the condition of adjacent teeth and the gap. Your dentist then recommends the best type of dental bridge based on your needs.

Preparation and Impression

Prepare your teeth for the bridge. The dentist reshapes the abutment teeth to fit the crowns. This typically involves removing some enamel. Once the teeth are reshaped, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth using dental putty or a digital scanner. The impression serves as a model to create your custom bridge.

Placement of the Bridge

Receive your custom dental bridge. At a follow-up appointment, the dentist fits the bridge by placing crowns on the abutment teeth. They ensure the bridge fits properly and comfortably. Adjustments are made as necessary before permanently cementing the bridge in place. The dentist provides instructions on caring for your new dental bridge to ensure longevity and optimal oral health.

Finding the Right Dental Clinic in London Ontario

Choosing the right dental clinic in London Ontario is crucial for successful dental bridge procedures. Consider several factors to ensure you receive quality care.

Factors to Consider

Experience and Credentials

Look for clinics with experienced dentists who specialize in dental bridges. Verify their credentials and training to ensure you're in capable hands.

Clinic Reputation

Research online reviews and patient testimonials. Positive feedback indicates satisfactory patient experiences and reliable results.

Technology and Equipment

Choose clinics that use modern technology and up-to-date equipment. Advanced tools often result in more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.

Range of Services

Select a clinic that offers a comprehensive range of dental services. This ensures you have access to various treatments and can maintain overall oral health at the same location.

Pricing and Insurance

Evaluate the clinic's pricing structure and insurance compatibility. Transparent costs and insurance support can make dental treatments more affordable.

Recommended Clinics

West Dental Care

West Dental Care boasts a team of skilled dentists with extensive experience in dental bridges. They offer state-of-the-art technology and a wide range of dental services.

White Smile Dental Clinic

White Smile Dental Clinic has a strong reputation for patient satisfaction. They prioritize patient comfort using the latest dental equipment.

Forest City Dental

Forest City Dental provides comprehensive dental care, including dental bridges. They offer competitive pricing and work with various insurance providers.

Oakridge Family Dental

Oakridge Family Dental stands out for its advanced technological resources and personalized care plans, ensuring tailored treatment for every patient.

Maintenance and Care for Dental Bridges

Daily Oral Hygiene

Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss between your teeth and around your bridge to remove plaque. Use an interdental brush or water flosser for areas a regular brush can't reach.

Professional Dental Visits

Schedule regular check-ups every six months. Dentists can detect potential issues early and ensure your bridge remains secure and functional. Professional cleanings help maintain oral health and hygiene.

Dietary Considerations

Avoid hard, sticky foods like nuts, caramels, and hard candy. These can damage your bridge or cause it to loosen. Opt for a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins to support overall dental health.

Avoiding Harmful Habits

Refrain from using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite non-food items. Avoid habits like nail-biting and chewing on pens, which can stress your dental bridge. Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth during sleep.

Managing Wear and Tear

Over time, dental bridges can wear due to regular use. Promptly report any discomfort, looseness, or damage to your dentist. Regular assessments ensure longevity and functionality of your bridge.

Special Cleaning Tools

Use specialized cleaning tools designed for dental bridges. These may include floss threaders, interdental brushes, and water flossers. These tools help maintain hygiene, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Conclusion

Choosing dental bridges in London Ontario can significantly enhance your oral health and boost your confidence. By selecting the right clinic and following proper maintenance routines you ensure the longevity of your dental bridge. Clinics like West Dental Care and Oakridge Family Dental offer exceptional services and personalized care plans. Remember to maintain daily oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups to keep your bridge in optimal condition. With the right approach you can enjoy a healthy and confident smile for years to come.