Porcelain Fixed Bridge Specialist

What is a porcelain fixed bridge?

A porcelain fixed bridge is a dental bridge made of porcelain material consisting of two dental crowns, which are like caps for your teeth, and a false tooth in between. 

A fixed bridge means the bridge is permanently fixed, or attached, in place and not removable as it stays in place when you eat, sleep, and brush your teeth. Porcelain fixed bridges fill in the gap of missing permanent teeth.

What are the different types of fixed bridges?

There are a few different types of fixed bridges available at Reston Dental Center, including:

Traditional bridges

Traditional bridges contain two crowns that fit over your natural teeth on either side of a missing tooth. The two crowns have an artificial tooth in between to fill in the gap. The teeth adjacent to a missing tooth must be strong enough to support this type of bridge.

Implant-supported bridges

If you are missing more than one tooth, your Reston Dental Center provider might recommend an implant-supported bridge. They surgically implant metal posts within your jawbone and let them heal prior to attaching a bridge to the implants, rather than your natural teeth. 

What should I expect during bridge placement?

To determine if you’re a good candidate for a bridge, your dental provider reviews your medical and dental history. They examine your teeth, take X-rays, and let you know which type of bridge best matches your unique needs.

Bridge placement is a multiple-step process. During the first appointment, your dentist prepares your abutment teeth, or teeth on either side of a gap. They re-shape the teeth by removing the outer portion to make room for crowns. 

If you’re a good candidate for dental implants, your dentist surgically places the implants and allows time for them to heal.

The next step involves your dentist taking impressions of your teeth or using digital scans to allow a dental lab to create a custom bridge just for you. When the bridge is ready, your dentist firmly secures it to your adjacent anchor teeth or dental implants, where it remains long term.

How should I care for my new bridge?

Care for your new bridge like your natural teeth by brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing every day, using mouthwash if your dentist recommends it, and not chewing on ice or other hard objects. See your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.

Don’t live with missing teeth when porcelain fixed bridges and other dental solutions are available at Reston Dental Center. Schedule an appointment over the phone or online today.