Traditional Fixed Bridge

Traditional Fixed Bridge is the most common type of dental bridges. It is used to fill in areas where teeth are missing. It is made from porcelain and usually has a metal substructure that is attached to two surrounding abutments called dental crowns. As the term implies, traditional fixed bridge is fixed and cannot be taken out of the mouth by the patient compared to that of the removable partial dentures.

If a missing tooth is left unfilled, the gap can cause the adjacent teeth to drift out of position and may cause teeth and gums to become more susceptible to tooth decay. Also, there can be further tooth loss due to gum disease that may occur.

The treatment time lasts from two to four weeks. If the natural shade of the teeth is difficult to match, the treatment time may be longer. The abutment teeth are prepared during the first appointment. Impressions will then be made from which a metal framework and the pontic will be created. The final bridge is fitted during the second visit. To make sure the bridge is fitting properly, the dentist may temporarily cement it for a couple of weeks before permanently cementing into place.

Several benefits are obtained upon placing these dental bridges. It will restore smile, correct an altered bite by distributing the forces upon the replacement of the missing teeth, improve the ability to chew properly and speak, and it maintains the shape of the face. Dental bridges last from five to seven years, but with a good oral hygiene and regular prophylaxis, the life span of the fixed bridge may be up to ten years or more.