Fixed partial denture

A healthy and beautiful mouth full of teeth is a sign of confidence and well-being. A missing tooth might restrict your smiles or may cause you to feel embarrassed when you are eating, speaking or laughing.

Dental Bridges or Fixed partial dentures (FPD) are one of the traditional methods for restoring 1 or more missing teeth. They "bridge" the gap of a missing tooth with 3 artificial crowns that are placed side-by-side. The crown in the middle replaces the missing tooth and the two outer crowns are anchored to your healthy natural teeth, one on each side.

Procedure

The dentist will assess your oral health, take x-rays, and discuss the options suitable for your case. For traditional bridges, the teeth adjacent to the gap are prepared by removing a portion of their enamel to make space for the dental crowns. This step is not necessary for Maryland bridges or implant-supported bridges.

An impression of your teeth is taken to create a precise model of your mouth, which will be used by the dental lab to fabricate the bridge. While the permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge is placed to protect your prepared teeth. Once the permanent bridge is prepared, dentist will check its fit, appearance, and bite prior to cementing it into place or using other appropriate bonding techniques.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and cleanings are vital to ensure the longevity of your fixed partial denture.

Benefits

1. Restored function: Fixed partial dentures permit patients to speak, chew and bite properly, which might have been compromised because of missing teeth. The artificial teeth fill the gaps, restoring the capacity to eat a wide assortment of foods and improving the speech.
2. Enhanced speech: Missing teeth can prompt speech impediments or trouble in articulating specific words. By restoring the missing teeth with fixed partial dentures, speech can be improved, prompting better communication.
3. Aesthetics: Bridges are intended to closely resemble like natural teeth, and the dental specialist will carefully match the color and shape to blend flawlessly with the encompassing teeth. This helps enhance the patient's smile and overall facial appearance, boosting self-esteem.
4. Preservation of Adjacent Teeth: By replacing missing teeth with fixed partial dentures, the adjacent natural teeth are held in place, preventing them from shifting into the gap. This helps maintain the alignment of the bite and avoids potential problems that may arise from teeth shifting.
5. Firmness and Durability: Fixed partial dentures are securely connected to the adjacent teeth or dental implants that provide excellent stability. When properly cared for and maintained, they can last for long years, making them a durable tooth replacement option.
6. Bone health: Implant-supported bridges can likewise assist with maintaining jawbone health. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can happen when a tooth is missing.
7. Comfort: When the bridge is cemented into place or secured with dental implants, patients don't have to worry over eliminating and cleaning them like with removable dentures.