22 Mar What to Expect When You Get a Porcelain Bridge
Missing teeth are among the most devastating of all oral health problems, both medically and emotionally. You may no longer feel like smiling and you may not feel socially outgoing when you have an incomplete smile. Plus, missing teeth can worsen your oral health by encouraging the loss of bone mass from the jaw. If you have one or more missing teeth, your dentist might suggest that you get a porcelain bridge.
What It Is
A porcelain bridge is a dental restoration that fills in the gaps in your smile. It’s comprised of a false tooth anchored on either side by dental crowns, which are affixed to the natural teeth. A porcelain bridge can restore the function and beauty of your smile.
What to Expect
It typically takes at least two dentist visits to get a bridge. First, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth that will receive the porcelain crowns. These teeth will need to be reduced somewhat in order to make space for the crowns. Then, the dentist will create a mold of the teeth. The mold is sent to the lab that will create your bridge. During the second dentist visit, you’ll have the bridge fitted in your mouth.
What to Do Afterward
It’s important to follow any aftercare instructions your dental office gives you. By taking good care of the bridge and the rest of your smile, you can lengthen the lifespan of this restoration. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss at least once daily. Be sure to clean your false teeth and crowns just like your natural teeth. While crowns can’t develop tooth decay, the rest of your mouth will still be affected by bacteria.
John R. Carson, DDS can custom-design a porcelain bridge to restore your smile and renew your self-confidence! Our dental office in Tucson offers many restorative dentistry options, including dental implants, inlays and onlays, and CEREC same-day crowns. New and current patients can contact us at (520) 514-7203.