Fixed Bridges Explained: When and Why You Might Need One

by Rohit Seo | Aug 30, 2024 | Dental Bridges

Introduction

Missing teeth rob the way you smile wholeheartedly and confidently. Do you have a missing tooth too? Well, we have the perfect solution for you. Fixed bridges are like fake teeth anchored between your natural teeth that can replace your missing tooth or teeth. They are one of the most approved restorative dental solutions for patients who need durable and effective ways to replace missing teeth. So let’s learn more about when and why you might need fixed bridges.

When Do You Need a Fixed Bridge?

If you want to maintain a smile that perfectly complements your personality, you need to know when to get a fixed bridge. We have a go-to checklist that will help you make a smart decision.

• Primarily fixed bridges are used when you have a missing tooth or teeth.
• To prevent the remaining teeth from drifting and maintain a perfect shape of your face.
• If you have healthy teeth on both sides of your missing teeth.
• Important note: When you have healthy teeth to support the fixed bridges.
• When you are experiencing trouble while speaking and chewing freely. That is a major benefit of fixed bridges they restore your ability to speak and chew freely.

Why You Should Get a Fixed Bridge?

There are several benefits of fixed bridges when it comes to maintaining both the function and aesthetics of a smile. 

• Fixed Solution: Bridges are permanently attached so they are fixed solutions, unlike removable dentures.

• Durable and Long-lasting: Bridges are made to last for 10-15 years, however, one should know how to properly take care of them.

• Improve Appearance: A natural-looking smile is ruined by extreme gaps and missing teeth, fixed bridges are the perfect solution for that.

• Restored Functionality: Your mouth performs various essential functions for you like chewing, smiling, and speaking. Missing a tooth affects such functionality and fixed bridges are a perfect match for restoring functionality.

• Maintain Facial Structure: Due to missing teeth, you have a sunken facial structure. And when you ignore the sugging it results in a bad facial structure. Fixed bridges can restore your sugged facial structure too.

Apart from the above mentioned, there are certain overlooked benefits too. Such as fixed bridges are cost-effective, they preserve jaw bone density and help maintain proper bite alignment. So if you are looking to opt for dental bridges in Victoria go through the list of benefits and make a worthwhile decision.

What is the Process of Getting a Fixed Bridge?

The process of getting fixed bridges is a comprehensive subject matter. However, let us provide you with a brief overview for understanding the dental solution and knowing what are you in it for. Maybe it will allow you to settle for a choice and eliminate dental anxiety if you are going through it.

1. Initial consultation: During your visit to your local dentist for dental bridges in Victoria the steps they usually follow are: Assess the dental issue, and check whether fixed bridges are required or not. Lastly, through X-rays, they assess the teeth impression and structure of your mouth.

2. Tooth Preparation: The teeth adjacent to your bridge are prepared to support the bridge. General preparation involves removing the enamel and making space for the crown.

3. Impressions: When the supportive teeth are ready, your dentist will take precise impressions of them. The impressions are sent to a laboratory and you receive your own custom-designed teeth bridge. The impressions help in determining the shape, size, and structure of your teeth and surrounding area for a natural look.

4. Temporary Bridges: Till the permanent restoration takes place, temporary bridges protect your exposed gums.

5. Fitting and Cementing the Bridges: When your fixed bridges are ready they replace the temporary bridges. Your dentist will perform a few tests ensuring you have the right bite, size, aesthetics, fit and comfort. Cementing the bridge or bonding marks the completion of the whole procedure.

To ensure you capitalize on the benefits of fixed bridges you need to follow proper maintenance and aftercare steps advised by your local dentist.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Below are necessary oral hygiene practices to ensure healthy restoration after you get a fixed bridge.

• Avoid harmful habits: Avoid chewing on hard objects or using your teeth to open cans.

• Brushing: While brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush pay extra attention to the area where gums and bridges meet.

• Interdental cleanings: Use interdental brushes and flossers for best oral hygiene practices for fixed bridges.

• Flossing: Prevent decay and gum diseases from reaching the area between the gum and bridges by using a special floss threader.

• Regular Dental visits: Always make sure to consult your dentist for dental bridges in Victoria. They can offer professional cleaning services and advice on how to maintain the best oral health for a perfect smile every day.

Schedule an Appointment at Academy Dental

Don’t go through the pain of hiding your smile due to missing teeth. Get fixed bridges to fix your smile. It will help you to confidently socialize, communicate, and enjoy your favourite food. Fixed bridges are more than just dental solutions, they are your way to achieve more with a perfect smile. Schedule an appointment at Academy Dental, your reliable dentist in Victoria to get fixed bridges. We have years of experience, expert dental professionals, and capabilities to address all your concerns proficiently. Happy smiles don’t like to wait, reach out to us now.