Huntsville SmilesDentistry
Hours (705) 788-9229

Autumn · Restore

Fixed bridges

A footbridge spans the creek, set firmly on both banks. A dental bridge spans a gap, anchored to the teeth on each side.

A fixed bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It’s cemented in place, so it doesn’t come out, and it fills the gap with a natural-looking tooth.

(705) 788-9229
Oil painting of a weathered wooden footbridge crossing a rocky creek in a Muskoka forest, with ferns and pines on both banks

When a tooth is lost, the teeth beside it can drift or tip into the space. The tooth above or below can grow into the gap. Over time your bite can change, and chewing can get harder. Filling the space helps keep your other teeth where they belong.

A bridge is made of crowns on the teeth on each side of the gap, joined to a false tooth in the middle. Because it’s anchored to your own teeth, it feels solid when you chew. A bridge can also be supported by dental implants.

How it works

  1. 01

    Exam and options

    We check the gap and the teeth around it, take x-rays and compare a bridge with other options, like an implant or a partial denture.

  2. 02

    Preparing the anchor teeth

    We numb the area thoroughly and shape the teeth on each side so the crowns can fit over them.

  3. 03

    Impressions and a temporary

    We take an impression and choose a shade. You wear a temporary bridge while yours is being made.

  4. 04

    Fitting the bridge

    We check the fit, colour and bite with you, then cement the bridge in place.

Afterwards

Expect some tenderness and cold sensitivity for a few days. Cleaning under the false tooth is important, because food and plaque can collect there. We’ll show you how to use a floss threader or a small brush to clean underneath. With good care and regular check-ups, a bridge can serve you for many years.

Questions people ask

Should I choose a bridge or an implant?

It depends on the health of your nearby teeth and bone, your budget and what matters to you. A bridge involves shaping the teeth next to the gap. An implant leaves them alone, but it needs healthy bone and more time. We’ll explain both and help you decide.

Does getting a bridge hurt?

We numb the area thoroughly, so the visits are comfortable. Your gums and teeth may feel tender for a few days afterwards.

How long will my bridge last?

With good care, a bridge can last many years. Its life depends on keeping the anchor teeth and gums healthy, so daily cleaning under the bridge really matters.

Will my insurance cover a bridge?

Coverage depends on your plan. We’ll give you a written estimate before treatment and can send a pre-determination to your insurer, so you know your share before we begin.

Related care

Along the same trail

All care
Oil painting of a young white pine growing from a crack in pink granite on a lakeshore, with blue hills beyond Dental implants A new root for a missing tooth, topped with a natural-looking crown. Learn more A potter’s hands shaping a small ivory porcelain cup on a pottery wheel in a sunlit studio Porcelain crowns Custom porcelain caps that cover and protect a weak or broken tooth. Learn more A laughing grandfather and his young grandchild fishing together off a wooden dock in warm evening light Complete & partial dentures Complete and partial dentures, plus repairs and relines for a comfortable fit. Learn more

Come sit a while.

New patients, returning patients and visitors to Muskoka are all welcome. Tell us what’s going on and we’ll find a time that suits you.

(705) 788-9229

Hours: Mon–Thu, 8 am – 5 pm