Fixed Bridges in Hutchinson
If you are missing any teeth and are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene practices, then you may be a good candidate for a fixed bridge. A bridge is the natural solution for filling the space left in the mouth by missing teeth, and a fixed bridge can not only connect an altered bite but improve your chewing ability and speech as well. Without a fixed bridge, the space that missing teeth leave can cause the surrounding teeth to drift out of position and leave the gums and teeth more susceptible to decay. Hutchinson dentist Dr. Grant Ringler can help you learn more about how to best fight your tooth loss problem.
What is a bridge?
A bridge is a dental appliance that replaces the space left by one or more natural missing teeth; in essence, it “bridges” the space between two teeth. A fixed bridge is a non-removable device that consists of three units: a pontic (false tooth) that is fused between two crowns that are cemented to abutment teeth.
Reasons for a Fixed Bridge
- Restore your smile
- Fill the space left by missing teeth
- Maintain facial shape
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting
- Restore your speaking and chewing abilities
- Upgrade from a removable partial denture
- What procedures are involved?
A traditional fixed bridge usually requires two or more visits to our Hutchinson, Kansas office. During your first visit, Dr. Grant Ringler will reduce the adjacent teeth that will act as anchors and make impressions to create the pontic (false tooth). In addition, Dr. Ringler will then create a temporary bridge that can be worn for several weeks until your next appointment.
Once we’ve received the custom-made piece from our high-tech dental laboratory, Dr. Ringler will carefully check, adjust, and cement the bridge during a second appointment at our office. The total treatment time for receiving a fixed bridge is usually between two and four weeks, but it can be longer depending on your unique situation.
Taking Care of Your Fixed Bridge
After you have received your new fixed bridge, it is more important than ever to maintain a strict regimen of brushing and flossing. If you do not control the build-up of plaque and debris, your teeth and gums could become infected. When this happens, you may face losing your new bridge and requiring further treatment.
By keeping up with your dental health, your dental bridge can last as many as 8-10 years or even longer! Hutchinson, KS dentist Dr. Ringler and his caring team are proud to offer this high-tech dental service and many more to our patients. Contact us for an appointment today!