Fixed Dental Bridges
When you need cosmetic dentistry for missing teeth, look to the experts at Martinez Dental Solutions. A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. Call us today to request your appointment.
Why Dental Bridges?
There are several types of fixed bridges that can repair and restore your teeth. 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 bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need to be replaced or re-cemented due to normal wear.
What can tooth bridges do for you?
- Fill a gap caused by 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
How Is a Fixed Bridge Installed?
Getting a dental bridge usually 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 each specific case, we may use the CEREC CAD/CAM technology to fabricate your bridge.
At the second visit, your permanent tooth 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.
Please note: It is essential for the permanent fixed bridge to be placed in a timely manner. Temporary bridges can break down if left in for extended periods of time. If they are, this may lead to multiple issues, including:
- Recurrent tooth decay
- Root canal therapy
- Existing root canals failing and requiring re-treatment
- Damaged gum tissue and gum recession
- New dental bridge no longer fitting resulting in new impressions, a new permanent bridge, and additional expenses
Are you in need of dental services?
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 for the Temporary Crown
- DO only eat soft foods such as rice or small pieces of meat
- AVOID eating sticky foods, like gum, and hard or crunchy foods like nuts, chips, popcorn, and ice
- IF POSSIBLE, only chew on the opposite side of your mouth
- DO brush normally
- DO floss carefully. Remove the floss from the side of the tooth to prevent disrupting the temporary bridge
- KEEP the temporary dental bridge in place to ensure the proper fit of your final bridge appliance. If the temporary does come off, 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 tooth bridge in place temporarily
When to Notify the Doctor
Notify your dentist if:
- You have persistent pain
- The temporary bridge comes off
- Your bite is uneven
- Experience any allergic reactions to medications including skin rashes, hives, elevated temperature, increased and/or erratic heart rate, nausea/vomiting, dizziness/fainting, and blurred vision
Cosmetic Dentistry for a Beautiful Smile
Why Choose Us?
- We only use the highest quality materials, most advanced technology, and first-rate dentistry practices
- No rotating doctors! Our dentists own and manage our dental offices, and you will always see the same dentist each time you visit
- We have 3D imaging technology in-house for more precise treatment planning
- Utilize local, high-quality labs to fabricate dental appliances
Request an Appointment with Us Today
Call one of our dental offices today to request an appointment for dental care and tooth repairs such as dental bridges, dental exams, cleaning and prevention services, cosmetic dentistry, and dental restorations like inlays, onlays, crowns, and composite fillings. Our team serves Riverside, San Marco, Fleming Island, St. Augustine, Middleburg, and all surrounding Jacksonville communities.