Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your self-esteem, oral health, and overall quality of life. At Dr. Anthony Parella's practice in Somerville, MA, we offer porcelain fixed bridges as a reliable and aesthetic solution to restore your smile and functionality. A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance that serves as an excellent way to replace missing teeth, providing both cosmetic and functional benefits.
Understanding Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Porcelain fixed bridges are among the most popular options for replacing missing teeth due to their natural appearance and durability. They consist of two crowns that cover the anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to one or more pontics (artificial teeth) that fill the gap left by missing teeth. Here’s why porcelain fixed bridges are a preferred choice:
Natural-Looking Aesthetics
Durability and Longevity
Benefits of Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Choosing a fixed bridge comes with several advantages that can significantly enhance your oral health and quality of life:
Fill Gaps from Missing Teeth: Bridges restore the appearance of your smile by filling in spaces left by missing teeth.
Maintain Facial Structure: By preventing facial sagging, bridges help maintain your natural facial shape.
Prevent Teeth Movement: Fixed bridges keep surrounding teeth from drifting out of position, preserving your bite and alignment.
Restore Functionality: With a bridge in place, you can enjoy restored chewing and speaking abilities, making everyday activities easier.
Permanent Solution: Upgrading from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance provides a more stable and comfortable option.
The Process of Getting a Porcelain Fixed Bridge
The process of receiving a fixed bridge typically involves two visits to our office:
Visit One: Preparation and Impressions
Preparation: Under local anesthesia, your dentist will prepare the two anchoring teeth by removing a portion of enamel to allow for crowns.
Impression: An accurate impression (mold) of your mouth is made and sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom bridge will be fabricated.
Temporary Bridge: You will receive a temporary bridge to wear while your permanent one is being created.
Visit Two: Fitting and Cementing
Fitting: During your second visit, the permanent bridge will be carefully checked and adjusted for a proper fit.
Cementing: Your dentist may temporarily cement the bridge initially to ensure comfort, allowing your teeth and tissue to adjust. The bridge will be permanently cemented at a later appointment.
Aftercare Instructions
After the procedure, you will receive care instructions. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will help extend the life of your new porcelain fixed bridge.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
If you're ready to restore your smile with a porcelain fixed bridge, Dr. Anthony Parella and his team are here to guide you through the process. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Contact us today at (617) 625-3022 to schedule your consultation and discover how a porcelain fixed bridge can enhance your smile and overall dental health.
For more information about our services and how we can help you regain your confidence, visit our website.