If you have missing teeth, a fixed porcelain bridge may be the answer to a better smile. Our experienced team performs this procedure by bridging any holes created by these missing teeth. This is accomplished by fusing artificial teeth to crowns surrounding nearby teeth.
If you’re searching for an answer to your smile problems, you may be confused by terminology. A fixed bridge consists of the following:
Pontic: A fake tooth used to replace a missing tooth
Abutments: Crowns that sit on either side of the pontic
In a porcelain fixed bridge, the material used to create the bridge is porcelain. These three parts are fused together to create a single restoration, filling any gaps while creating stability.
If you have gaps in your smile, a porcelain fixed bridge can “bridge” the gaps, creating a more aesthetically pleasing grin. Fixed bridges have similar structure to an actual bridge. The two abutments are placed at either end, making the middle part less strong as nothing is directly supporting it. Our Long Beach dentists might choose to add a third abutment to create more sustainability.
Keep in mind that the more teeth you are missing, the less stable the bridge will be as it must be created to be longer.
In these instances, our dentists will likely recommend a restorative option, such as:
With an implant-supported bridge, implant posts serve as abutments of a fixed bridge. This is a great alternative if you are missing a series of teeth in a row. For this option, our dentists will close the gap using a bridge made up of two implants with a space in the middle.
Abutment crowns are stabilized onto implant posts, supporting the pontic which is fused between the crowns. This option tends to be stronger than a traditional bridge.
A typical dental bridge should last ten to fifteen years, unless improper care warrants a faster removal. Good oral hygiene, diet, and frequent visits to our Long Beach office contribute to bridges lasting their longest.
Any kind of cosmetic dental procedure will take up considerable time and money. To prolong the life of your bridge, remember to:
Watch Your Diet
A healthy diet is essential after getting a porcelain fixed bridge, since certain foods can lead to decay. Try to avoid sugary and acidic foods to keep your bridge healthier, longer.
Keep Up with Proper Dental Hygiene
Remember to take practice proper oral hygiene to prevent gum disease and dental decay. If you retain too much damage, your bridge may need to be replaced. Brush your teeth and dental restorations at least twice a day with a small toothbrush. Regular flossing is also important.
Visit Us Regularly for Checkups
If caught on time, gum disease can be stopped and reversed. Be sure to get a regular dental checkup so our team at Dentist of Long Beach can treat any issues early, before causing damage to your bridge.
Restoring a missing tooth won’t just give you a better smile. It’s also necessary to keep your teeth and gums their healthiest. Talk to our team at Dentist of Long Beach dentist today to find out how we can help.
Replacing Missing Teeth Can Restore Your Health
Want to know if a fixed bridge is right for you? Call our office at (562) 373-0026 today to book a consultation with our experienced team!
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