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What is a Fixed-Supported Bridge?

Published in Dental Bridges 3 mins read

A fixed-supported bridge, in the context of dentistry, is a traditional type of dental bridge used to replace one or more missing teeth by using crowns placed on adjacent, healthy teeth as supports. These supporting teeth, called abutments, anchor the artificial tooth (or teeth), known as the pontic, firmly in place.

Key Characteristics of a Fixed-Supported Bridge:

  • Permanent Solution: Unlike removable dentures, a fixed-supported bridge is cemented in place and is not meant to be taken out by the patient.
  • Abutment Support: The bridge relies on the structural integrity of the adjacent teeth (abutments) for its support. These teeth require preparation, typically involving reshaping, to accommodate the crowns that will hold the bridge in place.
  • Pontic Function: The pontic fills the gap left by the missing tooth (or teeth), restoring functionality for chewing, speaking, and maintaining proper bite alignment.
  • Material Composition: Fixed bridges are often made of porcelain fused to metal (PFM) or all-ceramic materials. PFM bridges provide strength and durability, while all-ceramic bridges offer a more natural appearance.
  • Restoration of Aesthetics and Function: The primary goal of a fixed-supported bridge is to restore both the appearance of a complete smile and the ability to chew and speak comfortably.

How it Works:

  1. Preparation of Abutment Teeth: The dentist prepares the teeth adjacent to the gap (abutments) by removing a portion of the enamel to create space for the crowns.
  2. Impression Taking: An impression of the prepared teeth and surrounding tissues is taken and sent to a dental laboratory.
  3. Fabrication of the Bridge: The dental lab creates the bridge, which includes the pontic (artificial tooth) and the crowns that will fit over the abutment teeth.
  4. Temporary Bridge Placement (Optional): A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is being fabricated.
  5. Cementation of the Permanent Bridge: Once the permanent bridge is ready, the dentist checks the fit and appearance, and then cements it securely onto the prepared abutment teeth.

Advantages:

  • Restores a natural-looking smile.
  • Improves chewing and speaking ability.
  • Maintains proper bite alignment.
  • Relatively durable and long-lasting with proper care.
  • More affordable than dental implants in some cases.

Disadvantages:

  • Requires altering healthy adjacent teeth (abutments).
  • Increased risk of decay and gum disease around the abutment teeth if oral hygiene is not maintained.
  • Potential for bone loss in the area of the missing tooth (because the pontic does not stimulate the bone like a natural tooth root).

In summary, a fixed-supported bridge is a common and effective solution for replacing missing teeth by using crowns cemented onto adjacent teeth to support an artificial tooth in the gap.