Fixed Bridges - Washington DC Metro Center Dentist - Dr. James E. Johnson DDS, & Associates P.C

Fixed Bridges

What is it?

A dental bridge is also called a fixed partial denture. It is generally used to replace a missing tooth or teeth.

If you have missing teeth / tooth and would like to improve the aesthetics of your smile, please talk to us.In addition to the aesthetic value it is important to replace missing teeth in order to avoid consequences such as surrounding teeth drifting out of position and increasing the susceptibility of surrounding teeth decay and gum diseases.

We can discuss with you if dental bridges are the right solution for you, and what type of bridges best serve your requirements.

Most bridges are not removable by the patient and are therefore also referred to as fixed partial dentures. Here, a false tooth (bridge) is fused between two porcelain crowns that will be attached to your teeth on each side of the missing tooth. The teeth on each side are also called abutment teeth.

In some cases, such as if you have several missing teeth, it may be necessary to have a removable partial denture. Once created, such dentures can be removed and inserted by you without professional help.

How is it done?

It usually takes you about two visits to us to get your dental bridge.

First, we will prepare your teeth on either side of the space for the false tooth. This is primarily to provide space on these abutment teeth to accommodate the thickness of the crown. Usually we give you a local anesthetic during this procedure. Then we make an impression of the affected area. This impression will serve as the model from which the dental lab will fabricate your bridge, false tooth and crowns. After this, we place a temporary bridge for you to wear until the permanent bridge is ready.

During your second appointment, the temporary bridge will be removed. Then we fit-test your permanent bridge and check to see if there are any bite discrepancies. Finally, your new bridge will be cemented to your teeth.

Follow-up

A follow-up is not necessary unless you feel anything out of the ordinary.

What can you expect and what are the risks?

Bridges generally provide a natural appearance. Fixed bridges can last 10 years or more if you maintain good oral hygiene.

It is not unusual for your teeth to be mildly sensitive to extreme temperatures for a few weeks after the treatment. But this is only temporary.

It is important to follow proper oral hygiene. Otherwise, the build up of bacteria formed from food acids may act on your teeth and gums and they can become infected.

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