If you’re dealing with missing teeth, you’re not alone. Many people experience tooth loss due to aging, decay, injury, or other reasons. Luckily, dental technology has advanced to offer solutions like fixed partial dentures, which can restore your smile and restore the full function of your teeth.
What are Fixed Partial Dentures?
A fixed partial denture, often called a bridge, is a dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, fixed partial dentures are permanently fixed to your existing natural teeth or dental implants, making them a stable and comfortable option.
The denture itself consists of artificial teeth (called pontics) that fill the gap where a tooth is missing. These pontics are supported by crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth (or implants). The crowns help hold the bridge in place, restoring both the appearance and function of your teeth.
Why Choose Fixed Partial Dentures?
There are several reasons why you might consider fixed partial dentures as a solution for missing teeth. Here are just a few:
- Improved Aesthetics: Fixed partial dentures look like your natural teeth, making them a great option for restoring your smile. They blend effortlessly into your smile so people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
- Better Functionality: The loss of teeth may hinder your ability to eat or speak effectively. Fixed partial dentures restore the ability to comfortably eat different foods and communicate clearly.
- Preserve Your Oral Health: When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to bite problems or jaw misalignment. A fixed partial denture prevents these shifts and helps maintain proper alignment in your mouth.
- Durability: With proper care, fixed partial dentures can last many years. They deliver a lasting and stable solution for missing teeth, ensuring a permanent replacement.
- Comfort: Fixed partial dentures are more comfortable than removable options because they are securely attached to your natural teeth or implants. You don’t have to worry about them slipping or causing irritation.
The Process of Getting Fixed Partial Dentures
Getting a fixed partial denture involves multiple steps, but don’t worry—it’s a straightforward process. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Consultation
The first step is to schedule a visit with your dentist. During this appointment, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your goals. They’ll check if your remaining teeth are healthy enough to support the bridge or if dental implants are needed for additional support.
2. Preparation of the Supporting Teeth
If your natural teeth are being used to support the bridge, your dentist will begin by preparing these teeth. This typically involves reshaping them to fit the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. If you’re getting dental implants, the dentist will need to place the implants first, which may require a healing period before proceeding to the next steps.
3. Impressions
Once your teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth and are sent to a laboratory, where the bridge and crowns are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly.
4. Temporary Bridge
While your permanent bridge is being custom-made, your dentist will fit a temporary bridge to safeguard the prepared teeth and ensure they function properly. Though not as durable or visually appealing as the final one, the temporary bridge will serve you until the permanent version is ready
5. Fitting and Adjustment
Once the permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return to your dentist’s office for a fitting.To guarantee a perfect fit, the dentist will evaluate the bridge and adjust it as necessary to ensure comfort and proper bite alignment. After ensuring everything is perfect, your bridge will be securely cemented into place.
6. Aftercare and Maintenance
Once your fixed partial denture is in place, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. While the bridge itself cannot decay, the supporting teeth and gums around it still need care. Brushing and flossing daily, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding sticky or hard foods will help keep your fixed partial dentures in great condition.
Types of Fixed Partial Dentures
There are a few different types of fixed partial dentures, depending on how they are supported:
- Traditional Fixed Partial Dentures: These are the most common type. They are anchored to natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth. The surrounding teeth are shaped to fit crowns, which hold the bridge in place.
- Cantilever Bridges: In cases where a single tooth borders the empty space, a cantilever bridge can be utilized.
- . It is anchored on just one side, making it suitable for certain dental situations but less stable than traditional bridges.
- Maryland Bridges: Also referred as resin-bonded bridges, are a less invasive option. Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, without the need for crowns. This option is often used for replacing front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: If you don’t have enough healthy natural teeth to support a traditional bridge, your dentist may recommend dental implants. These implants are placed in the jawbone to support the bridge, providing a strong, long-lasting solution for tooth loss.
Are Fixed Partial Dentures Right for You?
Fixed partial dentures can be a great solution if you’re missing one or more teeth. However, not everyone is a candidate for them. To determine if they’re right for you, your dentist will need to evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, as well as your overall oral health.
If your remaining teeth are healthy and strong, fixed partial dentures may be the ideal solution. However, if your remaining teeth have significant decay or damage, you may need other treatments like root canals, extractions, or dental implants before moving forward with a fixed partial denture.
Caring for Your Fixed Partial Denture
Caring for fixed partial dentures is relatively easy. To ensure the longevity of your bridge, follow these steps:
- Brush and Floss: Just like natural teeth, your bridge needs to be cleaned regularly: Make sure to brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day to maintain optimal oral hygiene
- Regular Dental visits: Schedule regular dental visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings, ensuring your bridge remains in good condition and your gums and surrounding teeth stay healthy
- Avoid Hard Foods: While fixed partial dentures are durable, it’s still a good idea to avoid chewing on very hard foods, like ice or hard candy, to prevent damaging the bridge or crowns.
Why Choose MAAR Dental for Your Fixed Partial Dentures?
At MAAR Dental, we understand that restoring your smile is important to both your health and confidence. We pride ourselves on using state-of-the-art technology, guided by our highly skilled dental professionals. We provide personalized attention every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the final placement
If you’re ready to restore your smile with a fixed partial denture, contact us today! We’re committed to giving you the best care and ensuring your journey to a healthy, beautiful smile is a smooth one.
Ready to restore your smile? Contact MAAR Dental today for a consultation and let us help you achieve the smile you deserve!
