Porcelain Fixed Bridges in Jackson, TN
Missing teeth affect far more than your appearance — they can impact how you eat, speak, and how the rest of your teeth align over time. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we offer porcelain fixed bridges as a durable, natural-looking solution for replacing one or more consecutive missing teeth. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us to find out if a bridge is the right option for you.
What Is a Porcelain Fixed Bridge?
A porcelain fixed bridge is a non-removable dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a prosthetic tooth — called a pontic — to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth, called abutment teeth, are fitted with porcelain crowns that hold the bridge firmly in place. The entire restoration is fabricated from tooth-colored porcelain, resulting in a natural, seamless appearance that blends with the rest of your smile.
Unlike removable partial dentures, a porcelain fixed bridge stays in place permanently. You care for it just like your natural teeth — brushing, flossing with a floss threader or interdental brush to clean under the pontic, and attending regular professional cleanings at McLemore & McLemore, DDS.
Benefits of Porcelain Fixed Bridges
Replacing a missing tooth promptly has important benefits beyond aesthetics. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can begin to drift into the empty space, disrupting your bite and potentially leading to jaw problems and further tooth loss. A fixed bridge prevents this shifting, maintains the proper alignment of your remaining teeth, and restores your ability to eat and speak comfortably and confidently.
Porcelain fixed bridges are also highly durable. With proper care, a well-made bridge can last 10 to 15 years or longer. They are a proven, cost-effective tooth replacement solution for patients who are looking for a permanent restoration without the surgical component of dental implants.
Are You a Candidate for a Fixed Bridge?
The best candidates for a porcelain fixed bridge are patients who are missing one or more consecutive teeth and have healthy, structurally sound teeth on either side of the gap to support the bridge. Good overall oral health — including healthy gums free of active periodontal disease — is also important for long-term success.
Our team at McLemore & McLemore, DDS will evaluate your oral health, discuss all your tooth replacement options, and help you determine whether a fixed bridge or another solution such as a dental implant is the best fit for your needs and goals. Contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN at (731) 424-2651 to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Porcelain Fixed Bridges
What is a porcelain fixed bridge?
A porcelain fixed bridge is a permanent dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of a prosthetic tooth (pontic) held in place by crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. The entire bridge is made from tooth-colored porcelain for a natural appearance.
How is a fixed bridge different from a dental implant?
A dental implant replaces the missing tooth root with a titanium post and does not require modification of the adjacent teeth. A fixed bridge relies on the neighboring teeth as anchors, which requires those teeth to be crowned. Implants are generally considered the gold standard for single tooth replacement, but bridges are a reliable, non-surgical alternative.
How long does a fixed bridge last?
With proper care and maintenance, a porcelain fixed bridge typically lasts 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental cleanings and exams at McLemore & McLemore, DDS and thorough at-home hygiene — including cleaning under the bridge daily — will help extend its lifespan.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The preparation of the abutment teeth is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity around the prepared teeth is normal while wearing the temporary bridge and typically resolves once the permanent bridge is placed.
Can I eat normally with a fixed bridge?
Yes. A properly fitted porcelain fixed bridge functions much like natural teeth and allows you to eat most foods comfortably. We recommend avoiding extremely hard foods like ice or hard candy that could potentially damage the bridge or the supporting teeth.
How do I clean under a fixed bridge?
Standard floss cannot pass under the pontic, so we recommend using a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to clean beneath the bridge each day. Our hygienists at McLemore & McLemore, DDS will show you the best technique at your cleaning appointments.
How do I schedule a bridge consultation at McLemore & McLemore, DDS?
Call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment in Jackson, TN. Our team will evaluate your smile and help you choose the tooth replacement option that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
