dental bridges London
If you are missing a tooth, a dental bridge can restore your smile and help you chew more comfortably. At Fairmont Dental Centre we provide dental bridges as part of our cosmetic dentistry services in London, Ontario. Our clinic is at 613 Hamilton Road, London, ON N5Z 1S8. Call (519) 451-4490 to book a consultation. We offer evening and Saturday appointments and same-day consultations when possible.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by using nearby teeth as anchors. The false tooth is called a pontic. The teeth on each side of the gap are called abutments. The abutment teeth are fitted with crowns that hold the pontic in place. A bridge restores chewing, speech, and the look of your smile.
Bridges are a fixed solution. That means you do not remove them daily like a partial denture. Bridges can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia. Your dentist will explain the best material for your case.
Types of dental bridges
This section gives a short overview of common bridge types so you can discuss options at your visit.
Traditional fixed bridge
A traditional bridge uses crowns on the two teeth next to the gap. It is a common choice when those teeth need crowns or are strong enough to support the bridge.
Maryland (resin-bonded) bridge
A Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. It requires less removal of tooth structure and can be an option when the supporting teeth are healthy.
Cantilever bridge
A cantilever bridge is used when only one side of the missing tooth has a good abutment tooth. It is less common but useful in certain positions of the mouth.
Implant-supported bridge
An implant-supported bridge is attached to dental implants rather than natural teeth. This is a good option when many teeth are missing or when you want to avoid placing crowns on healthy adjacent teeth. Implant options require surgery and a bone check.
Your dentist will review which type fits your mouth, health, and goals.
Are you a candidate for a dental bridge?
You may be a candidate if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have strong teeth next to the gap to support the bridge
- Have healthy gums and enough bone around the supporting teeth
If supporting teeth are weak or missing, an implant-supported bridge may be a better option. We will take X-rays and examine your mouth to determine the best plan. If a case needs specialist care, we will explain the referral and help arrange it. Our dentists provide restorative care within general dentistry and will refer when needed.
What to expect during the bridge process
Getting a bridge usually takes two or more visits.
1. Consultation and exam
We review your medical history and take X-rays. We discuss the best bridge type and material for you.
2. Tooth preparation
The abutment teeth are shaped to fit crowns. Local anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable.
3. Impressions and temporary bridge
We take impressions and fit a temporary bridge to protect the teeth while the lab makes your final bridge.
4. Final placement
When the lab completes the bridge, we check fit, colour, and bite. We then cement the bridge in place.
5. Follow-up
We schedule visits to check fit and comfort. Any small adjustments are made to ensure a good bite.
The exact timeline depends on lab time and complexity. We will give a clear plan and estimate at your consultation.
Cost of dental bridges in London, ON
Bridge cost varies by type, material, and number of units. As a general guide:
- A traditional 3-unit bridge often ranges from around $1,500 to $4,000.
- Maryland or cantilever bridges may be at the lower end of that range.
- Implant-supported bridges are typically more expensive because they include the cost of implants and surgery.
Factors that affect cost:
- Number of teeth involved
- Material (porcelain, zirconia, metal-ceramic)
- Need for root canal or other preparatory work
- Lab fees and custom work
We do not give a final price until we examine your mouth. During your consultation we provide a written estimate and explain what is included and any possible extra fees.
Does insurance cover dental bridges?
Many dental plans cover a portion of bridge treatment under major restorative benefits. Coverage varies by plan and provider. We offer direct billing where available and can help you check your benefits before treatment.
Care and longevity
- Brush twice daily with a soft toothbrush
- Floss around the bridge and use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the pontic
- Visit us for regular checkups and professional cleaning
- Avoid very hard or sticky foods that can loosen crowns
Signs to call us include pain, looseness, or a change in bite. Regular care helps identify problems early and extend the life of your bridge.
How a bridge compares to other options
A bridge is a fixed, fast way to replace missing teeth when good abutment teeth are available. It is less invasive than implants when surgery is a concern. Implant-supported bridges do not rely on adjacent teeth and can be a longer-term solution, but they require adequate bone and surgery. A partial denture is removable and may be a lower-cost option. We will compare options and help you choose the best one for your needs.
Why choose Fairmont Dental Centre for dental bridges?
Choosing a dental office that offers clear planning and follow up helps ensure a smooth treatment.
- Location: 613 Hamilton Road, London, ON N5Z 1S8. Hamilton Road connects easily to Highbury Avenue and is reachable from central London.
- Experience: Over 35 years serving the London community.
- Hours: Evening and Saturday appointments available. Same-day consultations are offered when possible.
- Billing: Direct billing to insurance providers when available.
- Payments: We accept Visa, Mastercard, debit, and cash.
We aim to explain each step and give a written plan so you know what to expect.
Meet Our Dentists
Fairmont Dental Centre is led by Dr. Edward Pham and Dr. Alain David, experienced general dentists serving London, Ontario. They provide restorative and cosmetic care within the scope of general dentistry.
Both dentists focus on careful diagnosis, clear treatment planning, and patient comfort. If your case requires specialist prosthodontic or surgical care, we will explain why and arrange a referral to a trusted local specialist. Our clinic has served families in London for over 35 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth using crowns on adjacent teeth to hold a false tooth (pontic) in place.
How much does a dental bridge cost in London, Ontario?
A typical 3-unit bridge often ranges from about $1,500 to $4,000, while implant-supported options cost more; final price depends on your case.
How long does the bridge process take?
Most bridges are completed over two or more visits in about 2–4 weeks, depending on lab time and case complexity.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
We use local anaesthetic during tooth preparation so you should feel little or no pain. Some soreness afterward is normal.
How long do dental bridges last?
With good care, bridges can last 10 years or more, but lifespan varies by hygiene, bite, and how well the supporting teeth remain healthy.
Is an implant-supported bridge better than a regular bridge?
An implant-supported bridge avoids using nearby teeth for support and can be a long-term option, but it requires surgery and enough bone.
Will a bridge damage my other teeth?
A bridge requires shaping the abutment teeth for crowns, which is permanent. Good oral care helps keep the supporting teeth healthy.
Does insurance cover bridges?
Many plans cover a portion under major restorative benefits. Coverage varies, and we can help check your plan.
Ready to discuss a dental bridge?
If you are missing a tooth or have questions about replacement options, call (519) 451-4490 to book a consultation at Fairmont Dental Centre. We will examine your mouth, discuss options, and provide a clear plan and cost estimate.
We look forward to helping you restore your smile.