Fixed Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. At Martinez Dental Solutions, we provide dental bridge procedures for our patients that need restorative dentistry. Request an appointment when you call one of our offices today.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
There are several types of fixed bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of tooth bridge consists of two crowns that are affixed over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth). This appliance fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
If you are experiencing these issues, a dental bridge may be a viable option for you:
- Fill space of missing teeth
- Maintain facial shape
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
- Restore chewing and speaking ability
- Restore your smile
- Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance
What Does Getting a Fixed Bridge Involve?
A tooth bridge typically requires two or more visits.
During your first appointment, while the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment. Depending on the case, we may use the CEREC CAD/CAM technology to fabricate your dental bridge.
At the second visit, your permanent fixed bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally, your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.
It is imperative for the permanent restoration to be placed in a timely manner. Temporary bridges are not designed to be in for extended periods of time. If they are, they can break down and lead to the following:
- Recurrent decay
- Root canal therapy
- Existing root canals failing to result in re-treatment
- Damage to gum tissue causing recession
- Permanent bridge may no longer fit, and a new fixed bridge will need to be fabricated, resulting in an additional expense
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CONTACT US NOWWhat to Expect After Each Appointment
You may experience some hot, cold, and pressure sensitivity. Your gums may also be sore for several days. If an anesthetic was used during your appointment, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours. Avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.
General Instructions While the Temporary Bridge Is in Place
- DO eat only regular soft foods (i.e. rice, meat in small pieces)
- AVOID eating sticky foods (especially gum) and hard or crunchy foods (i.e. nuts, chips, popcorn, and ice)
- IF POSSIBLE, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth
- DO brush normally
- DO floss, but very carefully, removing the floss from the side, to prevent removal of the temporary bridge
- KEEP the temporary in place to ensure the proper fit of your final restoration. If the temporary comes off for some reason, keep it and call the office as soon as possible so we can re-cement it. If you cannot come into the office right away, you may use a small amount of Fixodent or Vaseline to hold the crown/bridge in place temporarily
When Should You Notify the Doctor?
- Persistent pain
- Temporary bridge comes off
- Uneven bite
- Allergic reactions to medications such as skin rash, hives, elevated temperature, increased and/or erratic heart rate, nausea/vomiting, dizziness/fainting, blurred vision
Full-Service Dental Restorations
Experience full-service dental restoration with our selection of restorative solutions:
Choose Us for Professional Dental Restorations
- We only use the highest quality materials, most advanced technology, and first-rate dentistry practices
- We work with local, high-quality labs
- We have 3D imaging technology in-house for more precise treatment planning
- We follow strict sterilization techniques and cross-contamination prevention regulations as set by the American Dental Association (ADA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Center for Disease Control (CDC)
Call to Request an Appointment Today
Contact Martinez Dental Solutions today to request an appointment for our fixed bridges, dental exams, cleaning and prevention services, dental restorations, and cosmetic dentistry services. Located in Jacksonville, we serve Southside, Neptune Beach, San Marco, St. Augustine, Middleburg, and all surrounding communities.