Dental Bridges – Sarasota, FL

What Is a Fixed Bridge?

A fixed bridge is a cemented restoration that functions to replace missing teeth. The adjacent teeth, also called abutments, are prepared for crowns, which are permanently connected to a false tooth. After cementing the prosthesis to the abutment teeth, the patient does not need to remove it for oral hygiene procedures.

Bridges may be made out of various materials, including gold, silver, and other metals. However, many patients prefer a dental bridge in Sarasota that is made out of porcelain. Porcelain bridges match the color of the teeth around them, providing tooth replacement that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is effective.

Advantages of a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge offers numerous advantages:

• A bridge a relatively fast and affordable way to replace one or more missing teeth. In many cases, dental insurance provides coverage for bridges.
• With proper care, a dental bridge has the potential to last for a decade or longer.
• A bridge can prevent your remaining natural teeth from drifting out of place and leading to a misaligned bite.
• A bridge is extremely secure. You won’t have to worry about it slipping out of place while you’re eating or speaking.
• The bite force that a bridge provides is strong enough to stand up to most (if not all) of your favorite foods.

When Are Fixed Bridges Used?

Generally, fixed bridges are used to replace between one and three missing teeth in a row. If you already have a few missing teeth, or you need to get a tooth extracted, you can start talking to your dentist right away about filling in the gap in your smile. If a traditional fixed bridge is not a fit for your circumstances, you may be a candidate for an implant-supported restoration.

Am I a Candidate for a Fixed Bridge?

You may be a good candidate for a fixed bridge if:

• You are missing one or more teeth in a row.
• Your abutment teeth are healthy enough to support the bridge. They should be free of serious decay and have strong roots.
• You have an old bridge that needs to be replaced.

After your dentist examines your mouth, they will let you know for sure whether a bridge is the right way to rebuild your smile.

How Do I Care for a Fixed Bridge?

Caring for a fixed bridge is fairly simple. You should be diligent about brushing your teeth, especially along the gum line near the bridge. Flossing is also important; you should use a floss threader to clean the area beneath the false tooth so you can keep the gums free of harmful bacteria. Not eating hard foods, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and not using your teeth as a tool to open packages can all help to reduces the chances that your bridge will break.

Regular checkups are another key to maintaining your bridge. During routine exams, Dr. Tindal will check to make sure that your restoration is still in good shape. He’ll recommend repair or replacement when necessary.

Would you like to talk to Dr. Tindal about replacing your lost tooth (or teeth) with a fixed bridge? Contact our office today.