Fixed Bridges

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 to 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.

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.

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, you 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.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

Dr. Loughlin had a great chairside manner! He explained all my options and didn't talk down to me. I like that his treatment plan started from the simplest, least expensive solution instead going with the most expensive and extensive option.

Charlene B.

Dr. Laughlin is amazing. He is kind, patient, gentle and honest! I had a previous dentist talk me into a bunch of cosmetic dentistry I didn’t need and the work was done poorly. At the time, I was very self conscious about my smile. I wanted some bonding and needed a couple implants due to bruxism. My previous dentist talked me into getting crowns on all my healthy upper teeth to “improve my bite.” The work was so bad another dentist told me to hire an attorney and recommended I see Dr. Laughlin. I‘m so grateful I did.

Unlike other dentists who have acted like I’m being a diva for feeling like the bite or the color is off, Dr. Laughlin ordered a new crown when he noticed the color was not quite the shade we spoke about. I told him I thought it would be ok but he said we are striving for perfection. I’ve never had this kind of experience in a dental chair. He placed the other crown for me as a temp and swapped them out when the new one arrived. He is so generous with his time and his staff is wonderful. I’ll be redoing all my previous work with him.

I also love that it is a private office. I hate going to dentists with a somewhat open floor plan. Who wants a bunch of people walking by looking at you while you are having dental work done?!

Unfortunately, he is out of my network but I would have saved money in the long run if I had gone to him first. To anyone looking for high quality cosmetic dentistry, I can not say enough about Alamo Prosthodontics!

Cristine K.

It was my great surprise and relief when I was worked in as an emergency for the loss of a filling in my tooth due to lighting down on bread at a local restaurant. Dianne the receptionist of many years was so understanding and concerned to help me get worked in rapidly the staff of Ci Ci and others was most sympathetic about my condition. I had to leave town the next day for 2 days and they worked me in before I had to leave town.
They explained the needed procedure after the dentist's evaluation and friendly manner of describing what needs to be done and putting my mind at ease that repair would be uncomplicated.

What a great place to trust your dental care to!! Caring, concern, sympathetic listening, and desire to let me know the alternatives of care make me a return patient for years to come.

David T.

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