Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain Fixed Bridges for Missing Teeth
If you have lost one or more teeth due to decay, injury, or any other cause, it’s important to fill the gap to prevent further dental issues. About Smiles Dentistry helps patients restore their smiles in Annapolis, MD with porcelain fixed bridges custom-made to blend with their natural teeth. A dental bridge is a fixed or non-removable appliance adhered to the adjacent teeth. There are many types of bridges, and our dentist will discuss which ones are the best options for your specific case. A traditional bridge is the most popular type dentists use, typically made with porcelain fused to metal. A porcelain fixed bridge is the most popular choice for patients because it closely resembles your natural teeth. This bridge includes two crowns going over anchoring or abutment teeth, attached to artificial teeth, known as pontics. The bridge effectively fills the gap left by missing teeth.
Dental Reasons to Get a Fixed Bridge
Dental bridges are highly durable restorations that restore your bite and appearance, lasting for many years. However, like most restorations, bridges eventually need replacement or re-cementing because of normal wear. A porcelain dental bridge is a realistic replacement to resolve tooth loss, and you can chew and speak normally again. Some examples of how a dental bridge can help you include the following:
- Fill the Space of One or More Missing Teeth
- Restore Your Smile
- Maintain Your Facial Shape
- Restore Your Chewing and Speaking Ability
- Prevent Remaining Teeth From Shifting Out of Position
- Upgrade from a Partial Denture to a Permanent Appliance
Steps Involved in Getting a Fixed Bridge
Getting a dental bridge typically requires two or more visits to About Smiles Dentistry. After numbing the teeth, we prepare the two anchoring teeth to hold the crowns by removing some of their enamel. Next, we make a highly accurate mold or impression and send it to the dental laboratory fabricating the bridge. A temporary bridge will also be made, which you will wear for several weeks while the permanent bridge is being made. At your next appointment, we carefully check your permanent bridge, make adjustments, and cement it in place to ensure a proper fit. On occasion, the dentist might only temporarily cement a patient’s bridge to let their teeth and tissue get used to it. We will permanently cement their new bridge at a later time.
Filling the Gaps in Annapolis, MD
After completing your dental bridge treatment, we will give you care instructions, including proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits to ensure your permanent bridge stays in good condition. About Smiles Dentistry is glad to help patients restore their smiles after tooth loss with porcelain fixed bridges.