Home » Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain Fixed Bridges Image

The loss of even just one tooth has an impact your entire mouth, and it can negatively affect the overall health, function, and beauty of your smile. At the Shadowridge Dental Group, we offer patients in San Marcos, Oceanside, Escondido, and all the rest of North San Diego County, a variety of tooth replacement options to meet a wide range of needs, including porcelain fixed bridges.

What is a dental bridge and how does it work?

A dental bridge is one of several alternative ways to replace one or more missing teeth. It has two main components:

  • Replacement teeth (called pontics) that “bridge” the space left by the missing teeth.
  • Crowns (called abutments) on the adjacent natural teeth that anchor the bridge securely in place.

When the natural teeth are not strong or healthy enough to act as anchors for a fixed bridge, dental implants can be used to secure the bridge instead.

Dental bridges can be made from a variety of materials although most patients prefer materials that appear as natural teeth.  Porcelain bridges are natural-looking, long-lasting tooth replacements. They are custom-shaded and shaped to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Porcelain fixed bridges improve the health and function of your mouth and enhance the beauty of your smile.

Getting a dental bridge placed

The process for getting a traditional dental bridge placed typically consists of two visits to the office.

In your first visit, the doctor will prepare the neighboring teeth that will serve to affix the bridge in place. Then, he will take dental impressions of the prepared teeth and the space of the missing teeth so that your new bridge can be custom fabricated. Prior to your leaving the office the doctor will place a provisional (temporary) bridge, or alternatively provisional crowns, to protect the prepared teeth while the bridge is being made in the dental laboratory.

At the second visit your new fixed porcelain bridge will be cemented in place. Prior to cementing the bridge, the doctor will check that the fit, bite, and color of the bridge. He will make any minor adjustments or corrections as needed and will make sure that the bridge meets with your approval in addition to his high standards. He will also demonstrate how to properly brush and floss around your new bridge to maintain the health of both the teeth and the gums.

After that, you are free to enjoy your terrific new, functional smile! With good home care and regular visits to the dentist, dental bridges can last for many years before needing to be repaired or replaced.

Learn more in a consultation

To learn about your missing tooth repair options and discuss which ones are the best for your oral health needs and preferences, call Shadowridge Dental Group today! Our office is conveniently located in San Marcos, CA and can be reached at (760) 284-8111.