The purpose of bridges is to replace teeth that have been lost. Bridges provide a way for you to chew and smile as you would if you had not lost any of your natural teeth.
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge consists of an artificial tooth that is anchored to the jawbone by the crowns (called “abutments”) of the teeth next to it. This creates the appearance of having a tooth that was lost, while at the same time providing support to a missing tooth or teeth. A bridge will help keep your nearby teeth in their proper position and your bite correct while also preventing the shape of your face from changing with time.
When a person has one or more missing teeth due to injury, decay or gum disease, a bridge can fill this gap and create a natural-looking smile by simulating the shape, size and colour of their remaining teeth. Additionally, most dentists will use a bridge to attach the false tooth to the existing teeth in the area instead of removing it and using dental adhesive to secure it to the gums. Properly cared for, bridges typically last between 5 to 15 years.
Types of dental bridges
There are 4 types of dental bridges. Your dentist will choose the right type based on where the gap is located in your mouth, how much tooth structure is left and any other dental issues you may have.
Traditional Bridge
This is the most common type. It uses crowns on both sides of the gap to hold the pontic. It works well for most gaps in the front or back of the mouth. Strong and reliable for chewing.
Cantilever bridge
It is a type of dental bridge where one side of the bridge is anchored to only one abutment tooth. This type of dental bridge is preferred for replacing lower front (incisor) teeth, since the amount of force being exerted through these teeth while chewing is minimal.
Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded)
Also referred to as resin-bonded bridges, Maryland bridges consist of a pontic with wings made of either porcelain or metal that have been adhered using a bonding agent directly to adjacent teeth. As there is no preparation of abutment teeth (i.e. no crowns), there is less drilling involved. Maryland bridges are typically recommended for younger patients requiring replacement of lower front (incisor) teeth, as long as adjacent teeth are generally healthy.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Titanium is used to create the supporting posts (implants) that provide anchorage for the bridge to the jawbone. The lack of dependency on adjacent teeth provides this bridge with the greatest advantage when considering replacing missing teeth due to lack of space or structural strength surrounding the missing teeth. The implant supported bridge provides the longest serviceable life (with proper maintenance); however, there is typically a healing period following surgical placement of the implant.
The three bridge designs each have numerous advantages over the others; the conventional (fixed) bridge can be fitted to replace an unlimited number of missing teeth; the Maryland (resin-bonded) bridge will preserve a minimum amount of tooth structure; the cantilever (one-side) bridge will usually allow for a faster completion than other types; and the implant-supported type should last longer than any of the other bridges.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge takes two visits, spread over weeks. It is painless with numbing shots.
First Visit: Prep and Impressions
A dentist checks your teeth with X-rays. They numb the area and shape the abutment teeth by removing a thin layer for crowns. Impressions (molds) are taken or a digital scan. A temporary bridge protects the area. This takes 1 hour.
Lab Work
The lab makes your custom bridge from porcelain, metal, or zirconia. It matches your tooth color perfectly. Waits 1-2 weeks.
Second Visit: Fitting
The dentist removes the temporary, checks the fit, bite, and appearance. They cement the permanent bridge. Bite is adjusted if needed. Done in 30-60 minutes. Eat soft foods first day.
For implants, add surgery first: bone drilling, implant placement, healing (3-6 months), then bridge. Total 4-9 months.
Dental Bridge Costs
Costs vary by type, materials, location, and dentist’s skill. In Canada, expect these ranges without insurance:
| Type | Average Cost (CAD) per Bridge |
| Traditional | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Cantilever | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Maryland (Resin-Bonded) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Implant-Supported | $5,000 – $15,000 |
Factors raising cost: more teeth, premium porcelain, gum fixes, or city prices. Insurance covers 50% often if needed for chewing/speech. Check your plan. Financing helps spread payments.
In Punjab, India (near Ludhiana), costs are lower: ₹20,000-₹80,000 ($240-$950 USD), but quality varies. Travel to Canada specialists for the best results.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Daily care keeps it strong. Brush twice daily with a soft brush, floss under the bridge using threaders or water flossers. Mouthwash fights bacteria.
Avoid sticky candies, ice crunching. Night guard if you grind teeth. See a dentist every 6 months for checks. Signs of trouble: pain, loose fit, bad smell—get fixed fast.
Common issues: decay under crowns (floss!), gum disease, wear. Proper care avoids 90% problems. Bridges beat gaps but need habit changes.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Benefits
Quick fix: ready in weeks.
Natural look and feel.
Improves chewing, speech, smile confidence.
Prevents bone loss and tooth shifts.
Cheaper than implants short-term.
Drawbacks
Needs healthy abutments; drilling weakens them.
Not for big gaps (use implants).
Can trap food if poor hygiene.
Replaces every 10 years avg.
Compared to dentures: fixed, no slipping. Vs. implants: faster, less invasive, but shorter life.
For Who Is a Dental Bridge Suitable For?
Indications for Dental Bridge Use:
– Has 1 or 2 Missing Teeth
– Has Healthy Abutment Teeth
– No Evidence of Heavy Grinding Dents.
– Not For Children (Jaw Is Still Growing) Or Patients Who Have Had Significant Bone Loss (Depends On Examination By Dentist).
Other Options Are: Single Tooth Implant ($3,000-$5,000), Removable Partial Denture ($1,000). Most Adults Are Good Candidates For A Dental Bridge.
Conclusion
A dental bridge restores full mouth function simply. Choose type with your dentist for best fit. For expert care in Canada, visit Red House Dental—they guide you from types to lasting smiles.