Cosmetic Dentistry- Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain Fixed
Bridges
A
fixed bridge is a type of dental
appliance that is non removable (hence
the name fixed bridge). Typically it is
a solution for replacing any missing
teeth.
There are several types of bridges, all
of them come with their own set of
advantages and disadvantages. Depending
the location of the area where the
bridge will be placed that will most
likely determine which kind of bridge
and what kind of material to construct
it from. However, you are free to
discuss this with us. Most of the time
we use a traditional bridge which is
made from porcelain and then fused to
metal. These are the most popular
amongst our patients because they often
resemble the natural look of
your teeth. We make every effort to
enhance your smile. This type
of bridge is made up of two crowns that
go over two anchoring teeth (Abutment
Teeth) and then attached to the
artificial teeth which then fills the
gap of the missing teeth.
As with most dental
restorations, bridges may have to be
replaced, remade or repaired at some
point in time. Most patients have kept
the same crown in for years and some
have kept them even longer! Bridges are
designed to match the size, shape and
color of your teeth giving you that
natural look. That being said, they
are very durable and will provide you
will many long lasting years, giving you
that beautiful smile that
you have always wanted.
Reasons for Porcelain Fixed Bridge:
- Restore
lost teeth and support remaining teeth
- Restores and maintains your natural
bite
- Prevents undue stress on natural teeth
- Improves your speech, smile and
chewing ability
- Helps prevent further dental decay and
gum disease
- Prevents tilting and shifting of
adjacent teeth
- Restore your smile
- Maintain facial shape
What is involved in a Porcelain Fixed
Bridge?
This procedure usually requires two
appointments. Prior to any work being
done we will numb the area surrounding
the teeth to ensure that you will
experience no pain. To start off we take
the two anchoring teeth that are being
used are prepared for the crown. This is
done by carefully removing a small
section of the enamel (hard coating
surrounding each individual tooth), this
will allow the crown to be placed. After
the teeth are prepared, then we will
take a high precise impression (mold) of
the teeth which will then be sent off to
a Dental Laboratory. The bridge will be
custom made and will be ready in about
1-2 weeks. When the bridge is back your
next appointment will take place shortly
there after.
During the second appointment, your
permanent bridge will be checked and
minor adjustments may be made. Following
this step, your bridge will be
permanently cemented on. On rare
occasions for patients with sensitive
gums or teeth, we may temporarily cement
the bridge, this will allow the teeth
and gums to get used to the bridge.
After the procedure
you will be given post procedural care
instructions. As with any examination or
procedure good oral hygiene practices,
and regular dental examination visits
will be encouraged to maintain the life
of your porcelain bridge and your
smile.
