Having damaged or missing teeth can be a significant source of insecurity and discomfort. It can even affect self-esteem and make it difficult to eat comfortably. Fortunately, dental bridges provide a solution to this problem. At Rankin and Mingle Dentistry in Aurora, CO, we proudly provide the option to get porcelain bridges. Porcelain bridges are excellent for anyone looking for a durable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing restoration option.
What are Porcelain Bridges?
Porcelain bridges are dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth or repair damaged ones. They consist of two or more dental crowns on either side of the missing tooth gap. These crowns hold the replacement tooth, usually porcelain, in place. The porcelain material blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth to mimic the same color and texture. The result is a natural-looking tooth restoration that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Who is a Good Candidate for Porcelain Bridges?
Porcelain bridges are suitable for anyone with one or more missing teeth and looking for something other than partial dentures or implants. It is important to have strong teeth on either side of your mouth for the porcelain bridges to be appropriately placed, though there are exceptions to this. Porcelain bridges provide a more permanent solution to missing teeth than other options, such as removable partial dentures. They are durable and long-lasting and do not require special care or maintenance. They are also relatively easy to place since the replacement teeth are custom-made to fit your mouth’s unique shape and size.
Benefits of Porcelain Bridges
Porcelain bridges offer several other benefits, including restoring proper chewing, maintaining facial shape, and improving speech. They also evenly distribute the forces of your bite, preventing added stress on other teeth, which can sometimes lead to further tooth damage or pain. Additionally, porcelain bridges can prevent the remaining teeth from shifting, which can occur when a gap is left untreated.
Procedure for Porcelain Bridges
A porcelain bridge is an effective solution for people who want to improve their smile’s appearance, functionality, and health. The porcelain bridge procedure is relatively simple, and it usually takes two or three appointments to complete.
- Consultation: The first step in getting a porcelain bridge is to visit our office in Aurora, CO, for a consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Rankin and Dr. Mingle will examine your teeth and gums, discuss your medical history, and explain the procedure. We may also take X-rays and make impressions of your teeth to ensure the bridge fits perfectly and feels natural.
- Impression and Temporaries: After the consultation and prepping your teeth, we will take an impression of them, which they’ll use to create the prosthetic bridge. To protect your abutment teeth and prevent exposure, your dentist will place temporary crowns over them. Temporary crowns will also make eating and speaking after the procedure more comfortable.
- Bridge Placement: After the porcelain bridge is fabricated, your dentist will remove and replace your temporary crowns with the porcelain bridge. Your dentist will secure the bridge using dental cement and make the necessary adjustments to ensure your bite is perfect.
- After Care: After the porcelain bridge has been placed, we will give you instructions on how to care for the bridge. You’ll need to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and you’ll want to avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage the bridge. Following postoperative care instructions, you can ensure that your porcelain bridge lasts for years without complications.
Porcelain Bridges in Aurora, CO
Porcelain bridges are a long-lasting, functional, and aesthetically appealing solution to missing or damaged teeth. They provide several benefits, including restoring proper chewing, maintaining facial shape, and improving speech. However, they may also require healthy surrounding teeth to support the replacement tooth. Schedule a consultation today with Rankin and Mingle Dentistry in Aurora, CO, and see if porcelain bridges are right for you!