Fixed Bridgework

What are fixed dental bridges?

Fixed dental bridges involve the preparation and crowning of teeth on either side of an area missing teeth to support artificial teeth to span the edentulous (toothless) area.

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A fixed bridge is a  non-removable appliance fabricated to replace missing teeth, which  closely resembles a patient’s natural dentition. Besides serving to  restore the appearance and performance of a complete smile, a fixed  bridge also prevents teeth that are adjacent to or opposite the  edentulous area from shifting to protect the integrity of the occlusion.  Fixed bridges are strong, durable and natural looking restorations,  which once they are permanently cemented into place allow all manner of  normal oral function.

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How are fixed bridges fabricated?

Fixed bridges are typically  fabricated over the course of multiple visits and involve the  preparation of the adjacent supporting teeth, impression taking, the  placement of a temporary bridge as well as the try-in and cementation of  the permanent restoration. The teeth located on either side of the  edentulous area that are crowned to provide support for the bridge are  referred to as the “abutment teeth,” while the artificial tooth (or  teeth) spanning across the empty space are known as “pontics.”

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With the dental technology available today, bridges can also be completely supported by implants without any preparation or crowning of the adjacent natural teeth  required. Depending upon the aesthetic and functional needs of a case,  fixed bridges can be fabricated from different dental materials  including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or engineered  ceramic-like products such as zirconia.