What Are Fixed Bridges?
A fixed bridge is a dental restoration designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) called a pontic and two dental crowns on either side. The bridge is anchored to the natural teeth adjacent to the missing tooth, essentially ” bridging the gap” left by the missing teeth.
Unlike removable dentures, fixed bridges are permanently cemented into place. They feel like natural teeth and require less maintenance, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a durable, hassle-free solution.
Why Choose Fixed Bridges?
Losing a tooth can be more than inconvenient—it can affect your dental health, speech, and even self-confidence. Fixed bridges offer numerous benefits, including:
- Restoring Functionality: Chewing and speaking become much easier compared to having gaps in your smile.
- Improved Aesthetics: Fixed bridges blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, improving the overall appearance of your smile.
- Maintaining Jaw Alignment: When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may shift, creating issues like misalignment. A fixed bridge prevents this.
- Durability and Longevity: Fixed bridges can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care.
Fixed Bridges at Brush Dentistry
At Brush Dentistry in Saginaw, Texas, we provide high-quality dental care personalized for every patient. Dr. Shakeel and Dr. Norwood are highly experienced in restorative dentistry, and we take pride in offering fixed bridges that meet your functional and cosmetic needs.
Here’s what you can expect when you choose us for your fixed bridge:
- Comprehensive Consultation: Your treatment begins with a thorough consultation, where we evaluate your dental health and determine if a fixed bridge is right for you.
- Custom Design: Our team ensures your bridge is custom-made to fit comfortably and match the color of your natural teeth.
- High-Quality Materials: We use top-notch materials like porcelain or ceramic to craft durable and lifelike restorations.
- Experienced Care: Dr. Shakeel and Dr. Norwood’s expertise will ensure smooth and precise bridge placement.
We understand that replacing a missing tooth is a significant decision. That’s why we explain every step of the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident in your choice.
How the Fixed Bridge Process Works
What does the fixed bridge process entail? Here’s an overview of what you can expect during your visits to our Saginaw, Texas, office:
1. Initial Evaluation
First, we’ll assess your oral health, including the condition of the teeth adjacent to the gap. These teeth, called abutment teeth, will serve as anchors for your bridge. We’ll move on to the next step if they are healthy enough to support the restoration.
2. Tooth Preparation
The abutment teeth will be carefully reshaped to ensure the crowns fit securely. This step involves removing a small portion of enamel from the surface of these teeth. Don’t worry—you’ll be given a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable.
3. Impressions
Next, we’ll take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a bridge that fits perfectly. These are sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians craft your custom restoration.
4. Temporary Bridge
While your permanent bridge is being made, we’ll provide you with a temporary bridge to wear. This protects your teeth and gums while maintaining the look and function of your smile.
5. Final Placement
Once your fixed bridge is ready, we’ll cement it into place and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. The result? A fully restored smile that looks and functions just like your natural teeth!
Caring for Your Fixed Bridge
Taking proper care of your fixed bridge is crucial to its longevity. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Brush twice a day: Just like your natural teeth, your bridge needs regular brushing to remove plaque and prevent decay.
- Floss daily: Flossing helps remove food particles that can get trapped under the bridge, leading to gum disease or other issues.
- Use a water flosser. A water flosser is an excellent tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around the bridge.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: These can damage or dislodge the bridge.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine check-ups and cleanings will ensure your bridge stays in excellent condition.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re ready to restore your smile with a fixed bridge, contact Brush Dentistry today. Our team in Saginaw, Texas is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Let us help you regain the confidence to show off your beautiful smile!
We look forward to helping you achieve optimal dental health. Keep smiling!
