Background
A dental bridge is a permanent, non-removable replacement for missing teeth. Today, fixed bridges made of all porcelain have superseded traditional bridges in popularity. Older bridges were made with porcelain fused with metal, which could cause some sensitivity to heat and cold. Porcelain fixed bridges look and act like natural teeth.
Porcelain fixed bridges consist of two crowns placed over two anchoring teeth and connected by artificial teeth, or pontics, to fill a void from one or several missing teeth.
The Process
Your dentist will usually schedule two visits to manufacture and fit a porcelain fixed bridge. During your first visit, when the area is numb, a portion of enamel is removed from the two anchoring teeth to prepare them for crowns. Your dentist will take an impression to fabricate the bridge. A temporary bridge is created and worn for two weeks until the second visit.
During this visit, the permanent bridge is precisely adjusted, checked for accuracy, and cemented in place. Your dentist will provide care instructions on how to care for your bridge. As with your natural teeth, brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups will extend the life of your permanent bridge.
See our FAQ page for more tips and information about exceptional dental hygiene.
The Results
Porcelain fixed bridges fill the space between missing teeth, maintaining facial shape and preventing other teeth from drifting out of their positions. In addition to restoring your smile’s appearance, they can also restore speech and chewing comfort. Porcelain bridges are a long-lasting solution to restore the natural beauty of your smile.