John H. Cho, DDS John H. Cho, DDS
dental procedures gentle care & comfort for your smile

Fixed Bridges Long Beach

Conveniently located to serve Lakewood, Los Alamitos, Los Altos, and Belmont Shore

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

1. Traditional Bridges

These are the most common dental bridges that are made of ceramic, all-metal like gold or porcelain fused with metal. There is one fake tooth in these bridges known as a pontic that is held in place by a dental crown on each side. When the doctor is applying this, they file and shape the two teeth that are next to the fake tooth to ensure that the two dental crowns can correctly fit.

Traditional bridges are strong, durable, and, with proper care, can last a long time. They are mainly used for restoring posterior teeth like molars and premolars.

2. Cantilever Bridges

These are somewhat similar to the traditional bridges as they consist of porcelain infused with metal. However, in order to support it, a patient needs to have a natural tooth right next to the missing one. In this type of bridge, an artificial tooth or a dental crown is placed on either side of the unhealthy tooth. It is commonly used for restoring front teeth as they are not strong enough to support the back teeth (molars).

3. Maryland Bridges

Also known as adhesive bridges, Maryland bridges are less invasive than the traditional ones. They are made of porcelain and have “wings” bonding to the adjacent teeth that help keep the bridge stable. Most of the Maryland bridges come with porcelain bridges. Porcelain is made to look exactly like the natural tooth color. Also, when you use these, there is less tooth removal as they are attached next to the missing tooth and backside of the front teeth.

4. Implant-Supported Bridges

Instead of dental crowns or metal frameworks, these are entirely supported by dental implants. It is mainly used for restoring back teeth like molars and premolars and is ideal for patients with at least three missing teeth in a row.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

How Can We Help?

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

  • Fill space of missing teeth.
  • Maintain facial shape.
  • Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
  • Restore chewing and speaking ability.
  • Restore your smile.
  • Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new, permanent bridge.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Long Beach Dentist Dr. John Cho. Dr. Cho can use his skill and experience to help determine which type of bridge is the right choice for you and can provide you with the outstanding dental care you need.

Do you want to improve your smile? do you have a dental concern

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    “This dental office is highly recommended- for their service, friendliness and expertise in dentistry. The deep cleaning done for my needs was painless.”

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