If you're missing one or more teeth, porcelain dental bridges are a great way to replace them and restore your natural smile.
Dr. Chew is passionate about creating beautiful smiles for all of his patients. We offer high-quality porcelain dental bridges in Fremont, CA to do just that. Learn more about how porcelain dental bridges work here!
What is a Porcelain Fixed Bridge?
Dental bridges are fixed (or permanent) dental appliances used to replace missing teeth -- whether you're only missing one tooth or multiple. Porcelain fixed bridges are composed of two crowns that are placed over existing teeth (or abutment teeth) and the artificial porcelain teeth. The crowns are attached to the artificial teeth being used to fill the gap.
Similar to dental fillings, fixed bridges can be made out of different materials including metal or porcelain fused to metal.
Porcelain fixed bridges are the more popular option because they look like your natural teeth. Porcelain bridges are also durable and long-lasting, making them a stronger alternative to removable bridges and partial dentures.
How Long Does a Porcelain Bridge Last?
Porcelain bridges can last anywhere from 10-15+ years with proper dental care and maintenance. Like many other cosmetic dentistry procedures, they don't last forever and may need to be replaced or re-cemented in the future.
Why Would I Need a Dental Bridge?
Missing teeth are the main reason patients need dental bridges.
While you might think it's fine to continue living your life without repairing one or two missing teeth, the truth is that missing teeth can drastically affect your oral functionality. This includes talking, eating, and even the shape of your face due to the loss of support.
Missing teeth can also cause additional stress on the surrounding gums and oral tissues, creating the potential for other dental issues such as gum disease. Also, a gap between existing teeth means they could shift and become crooked or uncomfortable.
Porcelain dental bridges help restore not only the look of your smile but also your overall appearance and oral health.
Can a Porcelain Dental Bridge be Repaired?
In most cases, yes, porcelain dental bridges can be repaired. Issues with dental bridges that can be repaired include fixing chips or cracks in the porcelain coating, adjusting a color that doesn't match your surrounding teeth, and tightening a dental bridge that feels loose.
If you're experiencing any issues with your new porcelain dental bridge, call our office as soon as possible so we can find a solution!
The Process of Getting Porcelain Dental Bridges
Getting fixed bridges typically requires two or three visits to our dental office in Fremont.
Here's how the process works:
1st Visit: Preparation - During your first visit, we'll need to install the dental crowns the bridge is going to be attached to. To attach dental crowns, we'll remove a small amount of tooth enamel and bond the crowns to the two anchoring teeth (or abutment) surrounding the gap. Then, we'll take a dental mold and send it off to the lab for your bridge to be custom-made! At this stage, we'll also install a temporary bridge so you can start to get used to it and prevent any teeth from shifting until your next appointment.
2nd Visit: Bridge installation - During your second visit, we'll install your permanent bridge. Once placed, it will be adjusted and cemented for a perfect fit. In some instances, Dr. Chew might only temporarily cement the bridge. This helps your teeth and gums get used to the porcelain dental bridge. If this is the case for you, you'll need to come back for a third appointment to get the bridge permanently cemented.
Restore Your Smile with Porcelain Dental Bridges in Fremont, CA
Looking for a solution to fix missing teeth? Porcelain dental bridges can give you a beautiful smile and restore your ability to do normal things again, such as eating and talking. Contact us or book an appointment to find out if porcelain bridges are right for you!