A
fixed bridge
is a permanent restoration, which replaces
the space where one or more teeth have been lost. A fixed bridge helps maintain the natural shape
of your face and may help support your lips and cheeks. The loss of a
back tooth may cause your mouth to sink and your face to look older.
Missing teeth can also affect the way you chew and speak.
In
addition, over
time, a missing tooth that is not replaced will cause the teeth next to
the space to shift around and drift, causing future periodontal (gum)
and bite problems and a possible loss of additional teeth
Crowns
and bridges usually are fabricated from porcelain and last indefinitely
with proper care. In preparation for a crowns or a bridge, the tooth is
shaped, old filling material and brittle areas of the tooth are removed.
An impression is then taken of the prepared tooth, and from that, the
crown or bridge is created by a dental
technician. In a second office
visit, the crown or bridge is precisely fitted and permanently cemented.