A fixed partial denture, also known as a bridge, is a permanent dental restoration used to fill gaps caused by missing teeth. It is cemented to abutment teeth and can be made of various materials. Different types of bridges are available, and they can improve chewing, speech, and appearance. Proper care and maintenance are necessary for longevity.
A fixed partial denture is a prosthetic dental restoration, or filling, that is permanently bonded to tooth roots, dental implants, or natural teeth. It is used to fill in gaps, or gaps, caused by one or more missing teeth. The generic term for a fixed partial denture is “bridge”, because its function is to “fill” the space between the teeth.
Cemented to the teeth on either side of the span, or abutment teeth, fixed dental bridges are not removable by patients. There are a variety of materials used to create the filling, such as porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or gold. Used porcelain alone is considered the safest material for use.
Different types of fixed partial dentures are available, depending on the variants of anchorage to the abutment teeth, as well as the methods of fabrication. The fabrication can take place directly in the patient’s mouth, through the use of composite resin; however, a fixed partial denture is usually made through an indirect restorative method. Typically, fabrication involves reducing the size of the abutment teeth to create space for the restorative material, as well as to maintain natural alignment and proper contact with other surrounding teeth.
These differences represent different bridge names. If a fixed partial denture only needs to be supported on one end, or by a single tooth, it is called a cantilever fixed partial denture. The use of this type of bridge is usually limited. Another option is resin bonded “Maryland bridges”. These inexpensive bridges are usually used when gaps occur in the front teeth without bite interference.
In addition to filling the spans, these dentures may be helpful in improving chewing skills and speech. They may also be able to correct impaired bites. Because fillings prevent the facial structure from collapsing, they can also protect personal appearance by delaying or preventing the fine lines and wrinkles that typically occur when facial structures begin to sag.
With proper care and maintenance of oral hygiene, a fixed partial denture can last up to eight to ten years, and in some cases longer. This requires regular dental visits, flossing, and brushing to control plaque and food buildup. Without these measures, infections are more likely to occur which can lead to loss of the prosthesis. In addition to these common measures, a dentist may require the patient to use floss threads to remove bacteria around the bridge and gums more thoroughly.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
