Dr. Denise Acosta and a team member laughing with a young patient in a treatment room at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, where fillings and crowns are done

Porcelain Fixed Bridges in Fort Wayne

Porcelain Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and an excellent way to replace missing teeth. There are several types of bridges, and you and your dentist will discuss the best option for you.

The traditional porcelain bridge

The “traditional bridge”, usually porcelain fused to metal, is the most popular type because it resembles your natural teeth. Two crowns fit over the anchoring (abutment) teeth and hold pontics (artificial teeth) that fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Bridges are highly durable and last many years, though normal wear may mean replacing or re-cementing them.

Dr. Acosta reviewing a patient chart with her team at Broadway Dentistry, a general dentistry office in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Reasons for a fixed bridge

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Fill the space of missing teeth
Maintain facial shape
Keep remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Restore chewing and speaking
Restore your smile
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent appliance

A patient talking with a team member in the chair during a dental exam visit at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

What getting a fixed bridge involves

A bridge usually takes two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared for crowns by removing some enamel. A highly accurate impression (mold) is sent to a dental laboratory to make the bridge, and you wear a temporary bridge for several weeks.

At the second visit, the bridge is checked, adjusted and cemented. Occasionally the dentist cements it temporarily first so your teeth and tissue can adjust, then permanently later. You will receive care instructions, and proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits help your bridge last.