Porcelain Fixed Bridges in San Diego, CA
Fix Your Smile with a Permanent Tooth Restoration
At Fine Dentistry, we understand the importance of a radiant, confident smile, which is why we offer porcelain fixed bridges for patients seeking a modern solution to tooth loss. Fixed dental bridges use dental implants to ensure a long-lasting restoration. Dr. Sabrine Purps is one of the best restorative dentists in San Diego, CA, for your oral health needs.
What Are Porcelain Fixed Bridges?
Porcelain fixed bridges are dental prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth. These fixed dental solutions are cemented into your gums with implant posts. These tooth bridges consist of two main components:
- Pontics replace missing teeth between the dental crowns. Porcelain is the preferred material for pontics for its natural appearance and durability.
- Abutments support teeth on either side of the gap. We prepare them by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the dental crowns to anchor the pontics.
Porcelain fixed bridges are an excellent option for restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile.
Benefits of Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain fixed bridges offer many advantages, making them a popular choice for tooth replacement:
- Natural Appearance: Porcelain mimics the color of teeth, creating a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Improved Chewing: Missing teeth can make eating difficult. Fixed bridges restore your ability to bite and chew properly, allowing you to enjoy a range of foods.
- Speech Improvement: Gaps in your teeth can affect your speech. Bridges help maintain proper tongue placement, ensuring clear and articulate speech.
- Prevents Shifting: When a tooth is lost, neighboring teeth may shift into the space, causing misalignment. Bridges prevent this shift, maintaining your bite’s integrity.
- Durable: Porcelain fixed bridges can last 10 to 15 years or more, providing a long-term solution for tooth replacement.
Candidacy for Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Not everyone is a candidate for porcelain fixed bridges. To determine eligibility, consider the following factors:
- Healthy Abutment Teeth: The supporting teeth (abutments) must be in good condition and can support the bridge.
- Gum Health: Healthy gums are essential for the long-term success of fixed bridges. Periodontal disease needs to be treated before bridge placement.
- Adequate Bone Support: Sufficient bone density is necessary to support the abutment teeth.
- Proper Oral Hygiene: Patients must commit to maintaining excellent oral hygiene to prevent complications and prolong the bridge’s lifespan.
- Consultation: A consultation with Dr. Purp is crucial to determine if porcelain fixed bridges are for you.
How Do Porcelain Fixed Bridges Work?
Preparation of Abutment Teeth
Before discussing how porcelain fixed bridges work, it’s essential to understand the initial step, which is the preparation of the abutment teeth. This crucial process involves shaping the supporting teeth on either side of the gap where your dentist replaces the missing tooth. Dr. Purps will remove a small portion of the enamel from these abutment teeth to create space for the crowns that will anchor the pontic (the artificial tooth) in place. This step ensures a secure and stable foundation for the bridge.
Impression and Customization
Tooth impressions are blueprints for crafting a custom porcelain bridge that perfectly fits your mouth. Customization ensures a natural appearance and a comfortable fit. The pontic’s color, shape, and size are carefully matched to your existing teeth for a stunning result.
Temporary Bridge Placement
While your permanent porcelain bridge is being meticulously fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed abutment teeth. This temporary bridge serves both functional and cosmetic purposes. It maintains the alignment of your teeth, prevents sensitivity, and ensures you can eat and speak comfortably while waiting for the permanent bridge.
Final Placement and Adjustment
Once your custom porcelain bridge is ready, it’s time for the final placement. Dr. Purps will securely attach the bridge to the prepared abutment teeth using dental cement.
To achieve a perfect fit and comfortable bite, your dentist in San Diego may adjust the bridge, ensuring your new porcelain fixed bridge feels natural and functions like your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do fixed bridges last?
Fixed bridges can be a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they typically last between 10 to 15 years or even longer. Regular dental check-ups and diligent oral care can help extend the longevity of your fixed bridge.
Does insurance cover fixed dental bridges?
Dental insurance coverage for fixed dental bridges can vary from one insurance plan to another. Often, dental insurance may provide partial coverage for the cost of fixed dental bridges. The extent of coverage depends on your insurance plan, deductibles, and annual maximums. Check with your provider to understand your coverage details
Do dental implant procedures hurt?
Dental implant procedures are performed under local anesthesia, which ensures you don’t experience pain during the procedure. Patients may feel pressure and minor discomfort, but it shouldn’t be painful. After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and following post-operative care instructions.
How many teeth can be in a fixed dental bridge?
The number of teeth that can be replaced with a fixed dental bridge depends on your dental needs and oral health. Fixed dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth in a row. The feasibility of replacing multiple teeth with a bridge will depend on the condition of the abutment teeth and your oral health.
Implant Bridges for a Restored Smile
Porcelain fixed dental bridges are a fantastic solution for restoring your smile’s beauty and functionality. Dr. Purps and our dedicated team are here to provide personalized treatment. If you’re ready to regain your confidence and enjoy a radiant smile, schedule an appointment today by calling our San Diego, CA, office at (619) 295-6500. Our practice serves the greater San Diego County, including Mission Hills, La Jolla, and Del Mar.
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