Fixed Dental Bridges

Fixed Dental Bridges

Patients who are missing teeth rely on Gallagher Cosmetic and Family Dentistry for fixed bridges. Left untreated, a missing tooth may result in the neighboring teeth shifting position, loss of bone, and gums vulnerable to gum disease or trauma. Fixed bridges work by using the neighboring teeth as anchors for a replacement tooth. Fixed bridges are designed with structures that hold the replacement teeth between two crowns.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixed Dental Bridges

What happens during the procedure for fixed bridges at Gallagher Cosmetic and Family Dentistry?

Procedures for fixed bridges typically require two to three appointments. During the first appointment, the abutment teeth, natural teeth on each side of the missing tooth, are shaped to hold the crowns. The dentist administers local anesthesia for the procedure of shaping the abutment teeth. After the abutment teeth are shaped, the dentist makes an impression of the teeth, which is sent to a lab where the fixed bridge is designed and manufactured. The dentist may provide the patient with a temporary bridge. During the second appointment, the dentist checks the fixed bridge for fit, and the crowns of the fixed bridge are permanently attached to the abutment teeth. Typically, anesthesia is not required for the second appointment. The dentist may use temporary cement during the second appointment to give the patient time to adjust to the fixed bridge. In these cases, a third appointment is required. During the third appointment, the dentist checks the fit of the fixed bridge, makes the necessary adjustments and permanently adheres the crowns to the abutment teeth.

When can normal activities resume after the procedure for fixed bridges?

Patients may resume their normal activities immediately after their procedures for fixed bridges. Patients may need time to adjust to eating, drinking, and speaking with their fixed bridges. Patients who receive anesthesia during their appointments should exercise caution when eating and drinking until the numbness resolves.

Is there any pain associated with the procedure for fixed bridges?

Patients may experience mild discomfort while the dentist prepares the abutment teeth for the crowns. Patients who experience discomfort after their fixed bridges are in place should contact Gallagher Cosmetic and Family Dentistry for follow-up appointments.

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