Replacing Missing Teeth

Fixed Bridges

• A fixed bridge replaces a missing tooth or teeth. It is called a fixed bridge because it is not removable.
• A bridge is a structure, supported by teeth on either side of a space. It spans the gap between teeth, just as a bridge spans a river.

How is a bridge made?

• The first step is to prepare the supports for the bridge.
• Replacement crowns are placed over existing teeth as supports for a bridge.
  • The dentist pares down the teeth on either side of the gap, and takes an impression of the prepared teeth.
  • This is then sent to the dental technician where the bridge is made.
  • The technician will make a replacement crown for each prepared tooth.
  • These crowns are joined to an artificial tooth, which replaces the missing tooth.
  • The dentist will then cement the completed bridge over the prepared teeth.

How will my pared down teeth be protected until I receive my bridge?

• The dentist will make and install a temporary acrylic bridge that will protect the teeth and prevent sensitivity.
• You can eat normally with a temporary bridge. It will also look good.

What is the fixed bridge usually made of?

• The base or framework is made of precious or non-precious metal to which tooth-colored porcelain is fused.
• Since the development of new stronger ceramic materials, bridges can now be made entirely of porcelain.

Is the preparation of bridgework painful?

• The procedure is not painful, because a local anesthetic is used during the paring of the teeth, and the taking of the impression.
• It is seldom necessary to take an analgesic for pain relief after the treatment.

Will there be any sensitivity after the bridges are placed in the mouth?

• Sensitivity to hot and cold sometimes occurs after the bridge has been cemented, but this is usually temporary.

Will a fixed bridge look good?

• Fixed bridges can be made to look natural and to match the adjoining natural teeth.
• A bridge in the front of the mouth will restore and even improve the smile.

How well will I be able to chew with a fixed bridge?

• Eating with a fixed bridge should be as comfortable as with natural teeth.

How successful are fixed bridges?

• Fixed bridges have been used successfully to replace one or more missing teeth.
• They can last for many years.