Fixed Bridges
A Stable Solution that Renews Your Smile
If you’ve lost teeth due to accident, injury, or gum disease, they can create a permanent bridge to restore your solid smile. A bridge not only fills the gap, but it also prevents repositioning of remaining teeth. It can also correct a misaligned bite, improve chewing function and speech articulation, and provide internal structure for the face to give you a more youthful appearance.
What is a Fixed Bridge?
A bridge is a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) that attaches on one or both sides to teeth prepared with dental crowns. A fixed bridge is permanently joined onto the neighboring abutment teeth (crowned teeth) and consists of two basic units: the false tooth or teeth (called a pontic) and two abutment crowns. The style of the bridge they suggest will depend upon the strength and health of the abutment teeth, as well as the location of the gap in relation to the rest of your dentition. If healthy adjacent abutment teeth aren’t available or if you prefer not to prepare the adjacent teeth, a surgically-implanted metal post, known as a dental implant, may offer a solid alternative. For a bridge that replaces many teeth, they may recommend a removable partial denture or implant-supported prosthesis. With proper care, a fixed bridge may last at least 8 to10 years. Dental implants have reduced the indications for both bridges and partials, but each situation is unique and each treatment has its own benefits and drawbacks.
If you have questions about crown and bridgework or any other dental prosthetic, call Dr. Mace and his team at James G Mace DDS in Washington, Missouri. They will be happy to discuss the options and schedule your evaluation.