Patient Library
Fixed Bridges
~Restoring your smile for the long run
When teeth are lost due to accidents, injury, or gum disease, we can
create a special permanent 'bridge' appliance to replace the missing teeth.
Not only does a bridge fill the missing teeth space, thereby preventing
repositioning of remaining teeth, but it also corrects an altered bite,
improves chewing ability and speech articulation, and supports facial
structures to preserve your normal appearance. Most bridges are 'fixed'
permanently with dental cement onto the neighboring 'abutment' teeth on
either side of the toothless area.
Front, Side & Other Options
Usually, bridges consist of three basic units: the false tooth or teeth (called a pontic) and two crowns that are attached permanently to the abutment teeth. When the patient is missing the front teeth only, and when the neighboring abutment teeth are healthy, a resin-bonded or "Maryland" bridge is a common and economical choice. In such cases, the pontic is fused to metal bands that are resin cement-bonded to the abutment teeth and hidden from view. This process reduces adjacent teeth preparation work. On the other hand, if teeth are left on only one side of the span, the pontic may need to be anchored to one side over one or more natural, adjacent teeth. This arrangement is called a "cantilever" bridge. If the patient has no adjacent 'anchor' teeth, the Dr may recommend a surgically implanted metal post or 'implant'. Finally, if the missing teeth'span' is very wide, we may suggest a removable partial denture or implant-supported prosthesis.
Reduction, Fabrication & Fitting
Bridge placement and fitting is a fairly simple process traditionally involving three steps. First, the Dr will reduce the adjacent abutment teeth to serve as bridge anchors. Next, he will take a careful impression of the mouth, from which the metal framework and pontic will be designed. During the second appointment, the newly fabricated, custom-fit bridge will be fitted over the teeth. Typically, this process requires two to four weeks, depending on the style of bridge being created. Matching the precise shade of teeth may sometimes cause minor delays.
Brushing, Flossing, & Preserving Your Bridge
Because the bridge anchoring area can trap food particles, patients who choose bridges must be committed to excellent oral hygiene: twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular professional cleanings at our office. Sometimes we'll even recommend using floss threaders to help remove bacteria from hard to reach spaces between the bridge and adjacent teeth and gums. Without proper care, food debris and plaque will build up on your remaining teeth, which can easily and imperceptibly lead to gum disease. If gum disease occurs, the bridge may need to be removed. However, with proper oral hygiene, you can expect your fixed bridge to last at least 8-10 years.