Missing Tooth Replacement
When Is a Dental Bridge
the Right Choice for
Replacing a Tooth in Calgary?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap with a false tooth (pontic) supported by crowns placed on the teeth on either side. Fixed bridges restore the appearance and function of your smile, prevent remaining teeth from drifting or tipping into the space, and distribute bite forces evenly. Porcelain bridges are custom shade-matched for a result that integrates seamlessly with your natural teeth. Bridges are appropriate when implants are not suitable or when a faster, more cost-accessible option is needed.
Step by Step
What Are the Steps of Getting a
Dental Bridge at Royal Oak Smiles?
Abutment Preparation
The teeth on either side of the gap are shaped to receive crowns. These abutment teeth anchor the bridge firmly in place and distribute bite forces evenly.
Impressions & Lab Work
Detailed impressions allow the dental lab to fabricate a bridge that fits precisely, matches your tooth colour, and aligns with your bite perfectly.
Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge protects the prepared teeth and restores function and aesthetics while your permanent porcelain bridge is being crafted in the lab.
Permanent Placement
The final bridge is checked for fit, colour, and bite before being permanently cemented — completing your smile restoration in a single appointment.
Performed by Dr. Muhammad Hamdan, DMD — Restorative & Cosmetic Dentist at Royal Oak Smiles. Call to book →
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dental Bridges in Calgary
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth (pontic) to crowns placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth). At Royal Oak Smiles, Dr. Muhammad Hamdan, DMD, fabricates custom porcelain bridges that are shade-matched to blend with your natural teeth. The bridge is permanently cemented, restoring full function and a natural-looking smile. The process takes two appointments over 2 to 3 weeks.
A well-maintained porcelain dental bridge at Royal Oak Smiles typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, diet, and whether the patient grinds their teeth. Patients who grind at night are recommended a custom night guard to protect the bridge. Flossing beneath the bridge with a floss threader is important to maintain the health of the abutment teeth and gum tissue.
A dental bridge spans the gap by crowning the adjacent teeth, while a dental implant replaces the missing root with a titanium post that supports a standalone crown — leaving adjacent teeth untouched. Implants are generally considered the superior long-term solution because they preserve bone and do not require altering healthy teeth. However, bridges are appropriate when implants are not possible due to bone volume, health conditions, or budget. Dr. Hamdan explains the trade-offs at your consultation.
Most Alberta dental insurance plans cover a portion of dental bridge costs when the bridge is medically necessary. Royal Oak Smiles direct-bills Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield Canada, Pacific Blue Cross, Desjardins, Empire Life, and Equitable Life. A pre-authorization is submitted before treatment begins so you have a confirmed estimate of your out-of-pocket cost. Call (403) 374-6161 to discuss your coverage.
A dental bridge at Royal Oak Smiles takes two appointments over approximately 2 to 3 weeks. The first appointment involves reshaping the abutment teeth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary bridge. The second appointment — once the permanent bridge arrives from the lab — involves fitting and final cementation. Dr. Muhammad Hamdan checks the bite and margins precisely to ensure a comfortable, long-lasting result.