Different Types of Dental Bridges and Which One Suits You Best

When you're missing a tooth or several teeth, your dentist may recommend dental bridges to restore your smile and oral function. Whether you're searching for “Dental Bridges Near You in Edmonton” or just curious about your options, it’s important to know the different types of bridges available and which one might be best suited for your dental needs.

A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap—these anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth—with a false tooth or teeth in between. These false teeth, called pontics, can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of materials.

But which dental bridge is right for you? Let’s explore the four main types, and by the end, you’ll have a better idea of which one suits your situation best.

---

1. Traditional Dental Bridge

This is the most common type of dental bridge. A traditional bridge consists of a false tooth or teeth held in place by dental crowns that are cemented onto the adjacent teeth.

✅ Best For:

• Patients with natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth gap.

• Long-term stability and durability.

👍 Pros:

• Strong and reliable.

• Feels and looks like natural teeth.

• Ideal for molars and back teeth.

👎 Cons:

• Requires reshaping healthy adjacent teeth.

• May increase the risk of future dental issues in those abutment teeth.

⭐ Best type of dental bridge to get if you value strength and durability.

---

2. Cantilever Dental Bridge

A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but the pontic is supported by a crown on only one side, rather than both.

✅ Best For:

• Cases where there’s only one natural tooth next to the gap.

👍 Pros:

• Less invasive than a traditional bridge (only one tooth needs to be prepared).

• Can be used in front of the mouth.

👎 Cons:

• Not recommended for areas with heavy chewing pressure.

• Can place extra stress on the supporting tooth, leading to damage over time.

⚠️ What is the downside of a bridge like this? Increased risk of wear or fracture on the supporting tooth.

---

3. Maryland Bonded Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)

Instead of crowns, this type uses a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of adjacent teeth using resin.

✅ Best For:

• Missing front teeth.

• Patients with healthy, strong adjacent teeth.

👍 Pros:

• Minimal alteration of adjacent teeth.

• Affordable and quick to place.

👎 Cons:

• Not as strong as crown-supported bridges.

• Can become loose or dislodged over time.

• Less effective in areas of heavy bite force.

🔍 Which is better: plastic or porcelain fixed bridge? Porcelain bridges are typically more durable, aesthetic, and stain-resistant compared to plastic (acrylic), making them a preferred choice for long-lasting results.

---

4. Implant-Supported Bridge

Instead of being supported by natural teeth, these bridges are supported by dental implants. Typically, one implant is placed for each missing tooth, and the series of implants hold the bridge in place.

✅ Best For:

• Patients missing several teeth.

• Patients with good overall oral and bone health.

👍 Pros:

• Doesn’t require altering healthy adjacent teeth.

• Offers a permanent and stable solution.

• Prevents jawbone loss.

👎 Cons:

• More expensive than other types.

• Longer healing and treatment time (requires surgery).

🕒 What is the best type of bridge to last a long time? Implant-supported bridges usually have the longest lifespan, often lasting 15+ years with proper care.

---

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Bridge

When deciding which dental bridge is right for you, several factors should be taken into account:

🦷 Number of Missing Teeth

If you are missing only one tooth, a traditional or cantilever bridge may work. For multiple missing teeth, an implant-supported bridge might be the better solution.

💪 Condition of Surrounding Teeth

Healthy, strong teeth are necessary for bridges like the traditional and cantilever types. If your surrounding teeth are weak or heavily restored, your dentist may suggest implants.

😁 Location in the Mouth

Front teeth are more visible and don’t endure the same biting force as molars, so Maryland bridges may work well here. For back teeth, strength is more important—so porcelain or implant-supported bridges are usually a better fit.

💰 Budget and Insurance

Implant-supported bridges, while highly durable, are more costly and may not be fully covered by insurance. Maryland and cantilever bridges are generally less expensive options.

🎯 Aesthetic Preferences

Porcelain and ceramic bridges offer a more natural appearance, making them ideal for visible teeth. Metal frameworks used in some bridges may be more noticeable.

---

Maintenance and Lifespan of Dental Bridges

All types of dental bridges require good oral hygiene practices. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use special tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the pontic. Visit your Dentist Near You regularly for check-ups.

With proper care:

• Traditional and cantilever bridges can last 5 to 15 years.

• Maryland bridges last around 5 to 10 years.

• Implant-supported bridges can last 15+ years, sometimes a lifetime.

---

Which Dental Bridge Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your choice depends on your specific oral health, number of missing teeth, location in your mouth, and personal preferences. If you want a long-lasting solution and have the budget, implant-supported bridges are generally considered the best option. If you prefer something less invasive and more cost-effective, traditional or Maryland bridges may be ideal.

For cosmetic purposes, porcelain bridges are typically better than plastic. They look more natural, are stain-resistant, and last longer. While plastic bridges may be cheaper, they’re not as durable or aesthetically pleasing.

And yes, dental bridges have some downsides—like the potential for weakening nearby teeth, the need for good oral hygiene to prevent decay under the crowns, and occasional discomfort. But with the right type and good care, these disadvantages are minor compared to the benefits.

---

Conclusion: Let the Experts Guide You

Still not sure which type of dental bridge suits you best? Don’t worry—your dentist can help assess your needs and recommend the most suitable option for your smile and budget. If you’re searching for trusted guidance and high-quality Dental Bridges Near You in Edmonton, visit Westside Family Dental. As a West Edmonton Dentist, our team is here to help you restore confidence in your smile with the best care possible. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a complete and healthy smile!

5 Reasons to Start the Year with a Dental Checkup

 As we welcome a new year, many of us make resolutions to eat healthier, exercise more, or improve our overall well-being. But one area that often gets overlooked is oral health. Scheduling a dental checkup might not sound as exciting as joining a gym, but it can have a lasting impact on your health and confidence. If you’re looking for a West Edmonton Dentist in your area to help you kick off the year right, now is the perfect time to book that appointment.

Here are five important reasons why you should begin your year with a dental checkup.

---

1. Catch Problems Early Before They Get Worse

Dental issues often start small—with little to no noticeable symptoms. Cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer can go undetected for months if you skip routine checkups. A simple visit to the dentist can help catch these problems before they escalate into painful or costly conditions.

Regular exams include more than just looking at your teeth. Dentists perform thorough assessments, take x-rays when needed, and check your mouth, gums, and jaw for signs of trouble. Early detection is always better than waiting for the pain to appear.

---

2. Clean Away a Year’s Worth of Plaque and Tartar

Even if you brush and floss diligently, some areas of your mouth are difficult to clean properly. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed with professional tools. A professional dental cleaning helps eliminate this buildup and reduces your risk of decay and gum disease.

This fresh start not only protects your oral health but also leaves your teeth looking brighter and feeling smoother. If you're hoping to smile with more confidence this year, a dental cleaning is a simple but effective step.

---

3. Boost Your Overall Health

Did you know that your oral health is closely connected to your overall health? Gum disease has been linked to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even complications during pregnancy. Taking care of your mouth is a way to take care of your entire body.

Your dentist can often detect signs of systemic health problems through symptoms that appear in the mouth, such as dry mouth, bleeding gums, or infections. By staying on top of your dental visits, you’re also giving your general health a boost.

---

4. Reinforce Good Habits (or Start New Ones)

The new year is a great time to reset your habits—and that includes oral hygiene routines. Whether you've been a little too relaxed about flossing or unsure if you're brushing correctly, a dental checkup can give you the motivation and guidance you need.

During your appointment, your dental hygienist and dentist can offer personalized tips to improve your daily oral care. You’ll leave not just with cleaner teeth, but also with knowledge that can help prevent future dental issues.

---

5. Make the Most of Your Insurance Benefits

Many dental insurance plans reset at the beginning of the year, meaning your annual benefits are fully renewed. Scheduling a dental checkup now ensures you get value from your plan before the year gets busy and appointments fill up.

Skipping preventive care could mean missing out on covered services, and worse, paying more later for treatments that could have been avoided. Starting the year with a visit to a

dentist near you is not only a health-conscious move—it’s a financially smart one, too.

---

When Should You See a Dentist?

While twice-a-year checkups are standard for most people, some individuals may need more frequent visits. If you have a history of gum disease, ongoing dental issues, or medical conditions like diabetes, it’s especially important to keep a close eye on your oral health.

Even if you haven’t noticed any problems, it’s still essential to maintain regular visits. Many dental problems develop silently and can’t be spotted without a professional exam. If it’s been more than six months since your last appointment, the beginning of the year is the perfect time to get back on track.

---

Don’t Wait for Pain—Prevent It

Dental pain often doesn’t show up until an issue has become serious. By the time you feel discomfort, the problem may already require more complex or invasive treatment. A checkup at the beginning of the year can help prevent this entirely.

By visiting a West Edmonton Dentist in the early months, you’re giving yourself peace of mind—and protecting your future self from stress, pain, and expenses. Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than treatment.

---

How a Checkup Can Benefit Your Smile and Confidence

A dental checkup isn’t just about preventing disease—it’s also about helping you feel good about your smile. A professional cleaning removes stains and polishes your teeth, making them look healthier and brighter. It’s an instant confidence boost.

If you’ve been considering cosmetic treatments like whitening, veneers, or aligners, your dentist can use this checkup to discuss your goals and recommend a personalized plan. The new year is a great time to explore options that improve both health and appearance.

---

Conclusion

Whether you're focused on your health, your smile, or simply making smarter choices this year, starting with a dental checkup is a step in the right direction.

At Westside Family Dental, we’re here to support you with compassionate care and personalized attention. If you're searching for a trusted dentist near you, our friendly team in West Edmonton is ready to help you start the year with a healthier, brighter smile. Book your appointment today—and make this year your best one yet for oral health.

Prepare Yourself for Dental Emergencies

Dental injuries are more common than you think. Sports injuries, falls while children play, accidental direct hits to the teeth... all of this can be a dental emergency. However, you may be far away from a first dental clinic. Let us find out what is necessary to do in those situations!

Broken tooth

A broken tooth is the most common dental emergency. For patients, it is also one of the most severe forms of tooth trauma, followed by an equally hard psychological and stressful situation. In case when you have an injury, the most important thing is to get to the dentist near you as soon as possible. In Westside Family Dental, a dental clinic in Edmonton, an examination and X-ray would be done immediately upon your arrival to the dental office in Edmonton near you. After that, the tooth can be put back in its place. It is crucial to understand the time between the injury and reimplantation of a broken tooth. Various stomatologist studies have shown that it is best to reimplant the tooth in less than 20 minutes if one wants to have a 90 percent chance of recovering. This, of course, may not be so easily possible. Instead, emergency dental care can be given up to two hours after an accident.

However, many people bring the tooth in a handkerchief or hand. This is understandable, as in such a situation it is hard to be prepared for an emergency. It is very harmful to do this, especially if the tooth falls on the dirty ground. The experts suggest putting the broken tooth in a glass of milk or plain water. If this is not possible, the best alternative is to keep it under your tongue or in your mouth – of course, without swallowing it!

Broken jaw

A direct hit to the head may leave you with a broken jaw. Most of them are fractures of the lower jaw (also called mandible), white fractures of the upper jaw are seldom and with a lot more serious consequences. This will call for a quick visit to the ER, followed by an appointment at the emergency dentist near you. If this happens, hold the jaw in place with a bandage wrapped over the top of the head and seek medical help as soon as possible.

Broken braces

Fixed braces for teeth alignment use wires to connect the teeth. Sometimes they break or they get stuck in gums, tongues or cheeks. Do not touch them, as this situation should be solved in the dental clinic near you. Instead, use wax and gauze to cover the braces and quickly visit the emergency dentist near you.

Toothache

When toothaches, it can be unbearable! It is a very common pain, especially in people with poor oral hygiene. The pain may be permanent and/or caused by hot and cold food, sugary drinks, chewing or brushing teeth. Flossing the tooth and rinsing it with warm salt water is an efficient way to mild the pain, followed by an ice compress. Some traditional help can also be beneficial. Clove oil and ginger can be used as an anesthetic and can calm the nerves. Warm mint, chamomile, or sage teas are also helpful, as well as cinnamon and honey mix. If pain persists, visit the dentist near you! There are many reasons why a tooth can ache.

Be it a real emergency or a durable toothache, emergency dental in West Edmonton, Westside Family Dental, offers professional and immediate help. Don’t be shy or embarrassed to look for such help. Accidents happen and it is better to rush to an emergency dentist near you than to use inappropriate measures that may do more harm than good!

When You Need an Emergency Dentist (and How They’ll Help)

The last thing that anyone wants to spend too much time thinking about is an emergency or crisis. Having said that, one of the first things that any family should do upon settling in a new community is to prepare themselves for dealing with dental emergencies that arise. 

The purpose of this article is three-fold: to help you and your family to identify dental issues that should be handled like an emergency; to encourage you to find and learn the number and address of a nearby emergency dentist in West Edmonton, and to help you to understand how an emergency dental clinic near you will help if any of these unfortunate situations arise.

What is a dental emergency?

● See an emergency dentist at a dental office in West Edmonton if you have the symptoms of an infection in your mouth: swelling, fever and/or foul discharge into your mouth

● Go to an emergency dental clinic near you if you have a broken tooth. 

● Unexplained, persistent, and worsening toothaches can indicate gum disease, infections, or an abscessed tooth.

● Any sudden onset of a toothache or pain in your mouth

● If you have continuous bleeding gums, especially with any swelling and pain, you need to see an emergency dentist near you

● Some causes of swelling in your mouth and jaw can be extremely serious —infection, swollen lymph nodes, and even cancer. An emergency dentist can determine if your swelling is serious and act quickly if required

● If you have a metallic taste in your mouth, which can mean you have a loose filling or crown that can be a gilded invitation to infection and cavities

● If the colour of any tissues in your mouth — gums, for example — are changing

● If one tooth suddenly becomes much darker than neighbouring teeth

What will an emergency dentist do?

In an emergency situation, the on-call emergency staff at a dental clinic near you will have four main priorities. 

Easing pain. Extreme or persistent pain is one of the most common triggers that drive people to contact an emergency dentist. Relieving you of that pain will be one of the emergency dentist’s first priorities.

Reducing swelling. Inflammation is an indication that your body is responding to an infection. Oral infections can cause swelling in your mouth, face, neck and throat. In addition to easing your pain, your dentist will treat the infection and seek to reduce the inflammation it is causing.

Eliminating infections. Treating an infection that is causing that inflammation can be done in a couple of different ways depending on how serious that infection is. An emergency dentist will almost certainly prescribe antibiotics medications, but may also remove infected material from your mouth before it can spread to and affect other tissues in your body. Many people don’t find themselves at an emergency dentist until their oral infection or injury has gotten quite serious. In that case, the dentist has two simultaneous priorities: doing what they can to treat the oral issue and preventing it from becoming so serious as to spread beyond your mouth. 

Rescuing teeth. Suffering a broken or dislodged tooth in a sporting incident or motor vehicle accident, for example, is another reason that many people contact emergency dentists. Depending on the condition of your tooth and how quickly you get to a dental clinic in West Edmonton, it may be possible to save your tooth. Your emergency dentist will prioritize saving teeth, when possible, in order to eliminate the need for further and more complex procedures down the road.

Now that you’ve read this, please take the time to look up the number of a local emergency dental clinic like Westside Family Dental and put that number in your phone or on your fridge. And don’t take this the wrong way, but we kinda hope we’ll never hear from you at that number. 

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Bonding

 

Given the immense popularity of cosmetic dentistry procedures like teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental crowns and Invisalign, it’s easy to overlook what is perhaps the most accessible entry-level cosmetic procedure for making subtle but transformative changes to your smile — dental bonding.

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding in West Edmonton involves the targeted application of small amounts of composite resin materials to fix and hide flaws that detract from the appearance of one or more teeth. The composite is a durable plastic-like material in the form of a putty that has been selected to blend naturally with the colour of your own dental enamel. Once the composite has been placed, your dentist in West Edmonton will harden the material with a special light before trimming and polishing it to blend imperceptibly with your own tooth material.

When is dental bonding used?

Considering how inexpensive it is and how quickly it can be performed — just one appointment and perhaps 30 to 60 minutes per tooth being perfected — dental bonding near you is a stunningly versatile weapon in your cosmetic dentist’s arsenal. With dental bonding, the staff at your dental clinic in West Edmonton can:

• To restore chipped material
• To repair cracks in your enamel
• To cover discolorations, especially discolorations that can’t be bleached away (such as discoloration caused by injury, infection or medication-related side effects)
• To fill gaps between widely gapped or inconsistently spaced teeth
• To lengthen a short tooth or to change the shape of a tooth

Dental bonding is so versatile that it can also achieve important restorative dentistry objectives, not just cosmetic ones. The composites used in dental bonding can also fill cavities (without the use of glaringly obvious amalgam or silver fillings) and cover roots exposed by receding gums due to periodontal disease to reduce sensitivity.

Dental bonding is an ideal option for achieving small cosmetic alterations and repairing minor flaws and damages in teeth not exposed to significant bite pressures. Because composite material is not as strong or durable as natural enamel, bonding is not appropriate for long-term correction of significant structural damage or repairs to molars exposed to the highest bite pressure in your mouth.

Because the composite resins used in dental bonding are less stain-resistant than porcelain used in veneers and crowns, and because the resins can chip and break from a tooth, bonding is best considered as a temporary solution for relatively minor flaws. To preserve the lifespan of bonded surfaces, you should avoid: biting fingernails or other hard objects; chewing on ice or pens; using your teeth as tools or to tear open packages; and grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw.

If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw as you sleep, you may have a medical condition called sleep bruxism that you should discuss with a dentist near you. Your dentist may be able to provide you with a nightguard to protect your teeth and dental work from damage and to alleviate some symptoms of sleep bruxism that can include muscle soreness and jaw pain.

Well-maintained dental bonding can last for between three and 10 years before needing to be touched up or removed and replaced. If the bonding material begins to erode for any reason, you may notice a sharp edge or snag along the perimeter of the bonded area when you run your tongue over it. If you do notice such a flaw, get in touch with your dentist right away.

Whether you are looking for a temporary fix to minor issues while you investigate or prepare for more permanent solutions or simply want the quickest and cheapest cosmetic dentistry option available, there are lots of reasons to consider dental bonding. Contact a dentist near you to find out how bonding can help you achieve your goals.

Truths You Need to Know About Root Canals

Too many people live with tooth infections for too long because they believe too many outdated myths about dental treatment and procedures — especially root canal treatment near you. The symptoms of serious tooth infections are no picnic — extreme pain and sensitivity, foul tastes and pus in your mouth, bad breath, inability to eat and chew naturally, swelling, and more — and an infection that is left in place for too long leads only to two places: infections throughout your body and having teeth pulled.

But there’s good news! Those root canals that too many people have shunned and avoided are not the complex and painful procedures that they may have been a generation ago. Thanks to constantly ongoing developments in techniques, technologies, therapies and medications, root canals are painless procedures for rescuing patients from infection and saving teeth from unnecessary extractions. Here are some straight truths about undergoing a root canal in West Edmonton that you need to know to make decisions about your health.

They are not painful

In the dusty and long-gone era of dentistry that predates sedation dentistry, laser dentistry, advanced anesthetics, and effective pain relief strategies, root canal was a painful and complex procedure. Today, though, root canal is a painless procedure that doesn’t cause pain, but can eliminate pain while ensuring the complete removal of potentially dangerous infections.

Yes, they eliminate pain… but more than that

Pain is a common symptom of a badly infected tooth, but is not present in every case. In fact, the absence of pain can be a symptom of an infection so serious that the nerve and formerly living tissues in your tooth have died. Determining whether you would benefit from a root canal procedure involves considering a lot of factors. Some of them, you can observe for yourself:

●     unusual sensitivity

●     tenderness under pressure

●     changes in the colour of the tooth

●     changes in the height of a tooth

●     the appearance of pimple-like bumps on your gums

●     and a foul taste or smell in your mouth.

Your dentist in West Edmonton may be able to confirm the need to undergo root canal treatment near you in other ways that you won’t be able to notice yourself, using temperature tests and percussion testing as well as detailed imaging. All of these symptoms and confirming factors can be present without significant pain.

It’s probably a permanent solution

Yes, there are rare situations when root canal treatment is not completely successful and must be repeated to ensure the complete elimination of infection. In the vast majority of situations, though, root canal treatment is long-lasting and potentially permanently successful — especially once the treated tooth is protected with a crown to provide structural support and a shield against penetration by bacteria.

Getting your tooth pulled is not a good alternative

Sometimes an infection is so serious that having the tooth pulled is the only reasonable next step. Your dentist will carefully review the health of your tooth, gums and mouth to decide if your situation has reached that point. Don’t worry, your dentist won’t pull your tooth unless it’s absolutely necessary. Why?

A tooth extraction can be an invasive, stressful and traumatic procedure that can increase the risk that harmful bacteria can enter your bloodstream. An extracted tooth also has to be replaced one way or another. Implants, partial dentures and bridges are all good options for replacing an extracted tooth, but they all involve additional expenses and procedures. A well-timed and successful root canal procedure by your dentist in West Edmonton can save your natural tooth and eliminate any need to worry about tooth replacements.

Decisions about your health and well-being should be made based on facts, not myths. To find out whether root canal therapy at a dentist near you is right for your situation, contact a dentist in West Edmonton about the health of your teeth. 

What to Do in Case of Dental Emergencies

Dental problems can be like a ticking time bomb for your oral health. If you experience any pain or discomfort, it's important to know if emergency care is required so that things don't intensify and get worse over time. Some less serious issues that could still be managed are toothaches, chipped teeth, pain from crowns - but an issue like a fallen-out tooth is an emergency issue.

Are Toothaches Also A Sign Of Dental Emergencies?

A toothache can sometimes be a sign of something more serious. It might signify you have an infection or tooth decay, but it might not be necessary to see your dentist immediately. If this has happened before and there isn't anything visibly wrong with your teeth, then simply taking over-the-counter pain relievers may do just fine until morning, when we will contact an emergency dentist in West Edmonton for scheduling an appointment if needed.

Some Of The Common Dental Emergencies Issues

It is important to know when you should seek emergency care for your teeth. Some examples of dental emergencies include a bad toothache, an injury in which you have knocked out one or more teeth, and an infection spread from the mouth into other parts of the body (also known as an abscess).

When you're suffering from dental pain, make sure to see a dentist near you. They can help diagnose the problem and talk about solutions that are available to fix it.

Talk with your dentist when experiencing painful oral health issues such as cuts, trauma including lost teeth, and other damages like chipped enamel on top front tooth surfaces.

What Should I Do If I Have A Dental Emergency?

Is your tooth hurting? If so, immediately call the dentist! It is important not to wait for hours before going in. You could get more urgent care at an after-hours emergency center or go straight into an emergency dentist in West Edmonton if you are injured seriously enough - do what will make things better faster!

How Do I Know If My Dental Issue Is A Dental Emergency?

The most common dental emergencies include knocked-out teeth, mouth injuries, and abscesses. You should consult an emergency dentist if you experience any of these problems because the consequences can be serious without treatment.

When it comes to your dental health, the damage is irreversible if you don't take care of serious injuries.

The wire on braces, if broken, can cause a dental emergency, which is why it's important to have your dentist inspect them.

Contact a dentist near you for further instructions about what action should be taken when there's an injury such as these!

If A Dental Accident Occurs, What Steps Should I Take Before I Get To A Dentist?

If you ever experience tooth pain, don't be scared. You may have just lost a tooth and need to see your dentist for the next steps in saving it as soon as possible! While waiting to see the dentist, the following may be helpful:

1. Keep an eye on any bleeding by spitting out blood while trying not to swallow it (or spit into anything other than the toilet).

2. Place gauze pads over the areas where there is tooth loss - make sure they are secure but don't apply too much pressure. This might help prevent swelling before reaching your dentist's office.

3. Take ibuprofen if experiencing pain for quicker relief.

4. Then rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward.

In a dental emergency, it can be difficult to know what steps you should take. If your tooth becomes severely damaged or broken, contact Westside Family Dental immediately to assess and determine how best to proceed to provide you adequate care.