Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits in our Panama City, FL office. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment in our Panama City, FL office. At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented later. Proper brushing, flossing and regular visits to our Panama City, FL office will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
Dental Bridge in Panama City, FL
A dental bridge seamlessly replaces a single missing tooth or a series of missing teeth. Missing teeth negatively affect the appearance of your smile and functionality of your teeth, including how you bite or chew.
They cause shifting of your teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or speech impediments, and they put you at risk for periodontal disease and tooth decay. A bridge comprises two crowns for the anchoring teeth, called abutments, on either side of the gap and a false tooth or teeth in-between, called pontics. These pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges need to be supported by natural teeth or implants.
Dental Bridges Can:
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Properly distribute the forces in your bite by replacing missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position and causing malocclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental bridge last?
Typically, you expect a fixed bridge to last years differing on the condition and general health of the teeth and rest of your mouth. The quality of your general oral hygiene and long-term habits will play a large factor as well.
What does a dental bridge look like?
If you’re getting a dental bridge, they look very natural and function like your natural teeth. The teeth on either side of the missing tooth will be reshaped and fitted with a crown. You’ll also have an artificial tooth made based on impressions of your natural teeth. That way, your replacement tooth looks like your natural teeth as much as possible. When your artificial teeth are ready, then it's cemented permanently with dental cement to the natural teeth on both sides
How do I take care of a dental bridge?
In general, you should care for your permanent dental bridge the way you care for your other teeth, practicing good daily oral hygiene and having regular dental checkups. Outside of that you should limit eating foods that are hard on teeth, specially chewing on ice. To increase the longevity of your permanent dental bridge, we encourage you to floss daily and use a water pick in addition to routine brushing. Let us show you how to floss around your bridge to keep it healthy.
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