Fixed Bridges in Scottsdale, AZ
One of the options for replacement of missing teeth is something called a "fixed bridge". It is called "fixed" because it is cemented in place and is not something that you take in and out of your mouth, like a partial denture
Why Get a Fixed Bridge?
Missing or severely damaged teeth deprive patients of a healthy smile. Without treatment, aesthetic and health effects of damaged or missing teeth only worsens over time. A fixed bridge is often used when the teeth next to the missing teeth need to be covered by a crown.
Beyond addressing the appearance of your smile, a fixed bridge can also improve dental function and wellbeing. Dental bridges prevent shifting of teeth by filling in spaces caused by missing teeth. Patients that already wear removeable partial dentures may find that a fixed bridge is more comfortable and more convenient.
Traditional Fixed Bridges
Dr. Blazer works with each patient on an individual basis, recommending a variety of dental options for replacement of missing teeth.
Traditional bridges have been used in dentistry for many years. Fixed bridges make use of existing, healthy teeth and are of materials that promote natural aesthetic and strength. Crowns are placed over neighboring teeth, which are then used as anchors for the artificial teeth.
A dental bridge can give you years of service, especially when you follow routine check-up visits to keep an eye on oral health and wear and tear on restorations.
The teeth that the bridge attaches to are called “abutments”. The missing teeth to be replaced by the bridge are called “pontics”. Usually there would be at least two abutments, and at least one pontic included in a single bridge. Impressions, or molds, are taken to fabricate a bridge that accurately imitates natural teeth. Patients are fitted with a temporary bridge while the permanent one is being fabricated.
Fixed bridges are “custom made” to match the rest of the teeth in the mouth, both in size and color.
Receiving a Fixed Bridge
The abutment teeth used to anchor the bridge are prepared for a proper and secure fit. Impressions, or molds, are taken to fabricate a bridge that accurately imitates natural teeth. To ensure you are not left with an incomplete smile prior to receiving your permanent bridge, you will have a temporary bridge to wear.
Prior cementing it in place, Dr. Blazer assesses your custom-designed permanent bridge, making any adjustments for a stable and balanced fit. Dependent individual needs, the bridge may be bonded with temporary cement to allow adjustment to the new appliance. At a future appointment, the fixed bridge is cemented permanently.
After the procedure, you will receive care instructions, including advice on proper brushing and flossing routines.
Scottsdale Crowns (Caps)
Marcia L. Blazer DDS, PC offers dental crowns, a very common dental procedure. Also known as caps, dental crowns are custom-fit to cover the entire biting surface and sides of the tooth. Made from a number of durable and natural looking materials, crowns protect teeth and restore biting and chewing function. The Advantages of Porcelain Crowns Porcelain is one of the more common materials Marcia L Blazer DDS PC recommends for crowns. Porcelain crowns are tooth-colored and shaped to effectively match your smile. These sturdy and natural-looking restorations are capable of providing years of service. As with most dental restorations, regular follow-up visits and occasional replacements are essential in maintaining attractive, long-lasting results.
Why Would You Need a Crown?
There are many situations where placement of a dental crown is necessary and beneficial. To achieve optimal results, underlying oral health concerns, such as gum disease and poor oral hygiene habits, should be treated first. Once these are managed, Marcia L Blazer DDS PC recommends crown placement for the following issues:
· Broken or Decayed Teeth
· Teeth that have received root canal treatment
· Replacement of large or damaged fillings
·Enhancement of dental aesthetics
What is the Process for Getting a Crown?
At Marcia L Blazer DDS PC, we meet our patients’ needs by first taking impressions of the targeted tooth. This allows us to create a custom crown. As it may take up to two weeks to fabricate permanent dental crowns, impressions are used for a temporary crown. This provides a seamless transition, ensuring patients are not without a smile for long.
During the crown procedure, Marcia L Blazer DDS, PC prepares the tooth by removing decay and shaping the tooth so that the new crown fits properly. There are two appointments associated with this procedure. Numbing is done for the first appointment, but is usually not needed for the second appointment, during which the new crown is placed.
We provide you with after-care instructions and encourage you to follow up at our Scottsdale office regularly.
Ready to Learn More? Contact Marcia L Blazer DDS PC.
Achieving a stronger smile begins with a consultation visit.
Contact our Scottsdale dental office today to
schedule an appointment and learn more about dental bridge restorations.
Back