Fixed Bridges in Baton Rouge
At Distinctive Smiles of Baton Rouge, LLC, we are pleased to offer porcelain fixed bridges as a safe, durable, and natural-looking way to replace missing teeth. A fixed bridge fills the gap in your smile, helps you eat and speak with ease, and keeps your remaining teeth in place, giving patients in Baton Rouge, LA a smile they can be proud of.
Request an AppointmentHow a Fixed Bridge Works
A fixed bridge “bridges” the space left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more replacement teeth, called pontics, held in place by crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These anchor teeth, called abutments, are prepared to support the crowns, and the entire bridge is permanently cemented in place. Bridges can also be supported by dental implants when neighboring teeth are not strong enough to serve as anchors.
Benefits of Porcelain Fixed Bridges
- Natural-looking replacement teeth that blend with your smile
- Fixed in place, so there is nothing to remove at night
- Restores normal chewing and clear speech
- Prevents remaining teeth from drifting into the gap
- Helps maintain your bite and facial shape
- Typically completed in just two visits
The Bridge Procedure
At your first visit, we numb the area and prepare the abutment teeth by gently reshaping them to make room for crowns. We take precise impressions and select a shade that matches your natural teeth, and a temporary bridge protects the area while your permanent bridge is crafted. At your second visit, we check the fit, bite, and appearance and cement your new bridge securely in place.
How Long Do Bridges Last?
Porcelain fixed bridges are very durable and often last 10 to 15 years or longer. Occasionally, a bridge may need to be re-cemented if it becomes loose. Cleaning under the pontic with floss threaders or a water flosser is important, along with regular cleanings and exams to keep the supporting teeth healthy.
Bridges vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options
Bridges are a great choice when the neighboring teeth already need crowns or when you prefer a fixed option without implant surgery. Dental implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, while partial dentures are a removable, budget-friendly alternative. We will help you weigh the pros and cons of each.
Please contact us today at (225) 218-9218 if you have questions about porcelain fixed bridges or would like to schedule a consultation. Learn more about our restorative dentistry services.
Fixed Bridge FAQs
What is a fixed dental bridge?
A fixed bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth anchored to crowns on the neighboring teeth or to dental implants.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care, porcelain fixed bridges often last 10 to 15 years or longer.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
No. We numb the area before preparing the anchor teeth, and any sensitivity afterward is usually mild and temporary.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Use floss threaders, a water flosser, or interdental brushes to clean beneath the replacement tooth, along with regular brushing.
Is a bridge or an implant better?
Both are excellent options. Implants do not affect neighboring teeth, while bridges avoid surgery and are often completed faster. We will recommend the best choice for you.
Can a bridge come loose?
Bridges are very secure, but occasionally one may need to be re-cemented. Contact us if your bridge feels loose.
How many visits does a bridge require?
Most bridges are completed in two visits: one to prepare the teeth and take impressions, and one to place the final bridge.