What is a Dental Fix Bridge? How is it Applied?

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What is a Fixed Dental Bridge?

A fixed dental bridge is a restoration consisting of a succession of prosthetic teeth (pontics) that are fixed over adjacent intact teeth to fill a missing tooth gap. The bridge consists of dentist-prepared overlays; the end crowns are bonded to the support teeth, while the artificial teeth in the middle fill the gap.

Thus, chewing function is restored and an aesthetically natural appearance is provided.

How is a Fixed Dental Bridge Actually Applied?

The procedure is usually performed in two or more sessions. In the first session, the enamel on the support teeth is slightly reduced to make room for the bridge, then an impression is taken and sent to the laboratory. The teeth are protected with a temporary bridge. In the second session, the porcelain or zirconium bridge returned from the laboratory is permanently bonded with a special cement after the physician tries it on and checks the relationship between aesthetics and bite. Afterwards, the patient is informed about how to clean their teeth.

What are the types of fixed dental bridges?

Fixed bridges are mainly divided into three types according to their material and design features. “Porcelain supported metal bridge” (PFM) is prepared by adding aesthetic porcelain coating on top of a highly durable metal substructure. The “full ceramic or zirconium bridge” is made of metal-free, fully biocompatible ceramic material and has more natural light transmission. “Porcelain bridges without substructure” are rarely preferred but are used in thin surface restorations.

What are the Advantages of a Fixed Dental Bridge?

Fast Application Process:
Fixed dental bridges can be completed in a few sessions without requiring a long healing time like implants. This is especially advantageous for patients who want to regain their chewing function quickly.
No Surgical Procedure Required:
In fixed bridge application, the gum or jawbone is not intervened. In this way, it is an ideal alternative for patients who are afraid of surgery or who are not suitable for surgery.
Provides Aesthetic Appearance:
By using aesthetic materials such as porcelain and zirconium, an appearance very close to natural teeth is obtained. While maintaining the aesthetics of the smile, the missing tooth gap becomes unnoticeable.
Comfortable and Fixed Use:
Unlike removable dentures, a fixed bridge does not move in the mouth. It provides a natural feeling to the patient in speaking, eating and daily use and increases self-confidence.
Protects the Position of the Surrounding Teeth:
The gap created by the missing tooth can cause neighboring teeth to shift over time. The fixed bridge fills this gap and ensures that the other teeth remain fixed in place.
Long Lasting and Durable:
With proper oral care, fixed bridges can be used for 10-15 years or longer without any problems. Thanks to their durable structure, they easily withstand the daily chewing load.

Who Can Have a Fixed Dental Bridge?

For fixed bridge application, both the teeth at the edge of the gap and the jawbone must be healthy. Therefore, patients with 100% gingivitis or advanced bone loss should first eliminate these problems; otherwise, the bridge support will weaken. In addition, even if the teeth to which the bridge will be applied have undergone filling or root canal treatment, the bridge can be removed if there is enough enamel left. It is suitable for adolescent and adult patients with complete jaw development instead of children.

What are the Differences Between a Fixed Dental Bridge and an Implant?

Fixed bridges and implants; although both are used in the treatment of missing teeth, they have fundamental differences. While the bridge requires the reduction of the neighboring teeth, the implant replaces the missing tooth root with a titanium screw, allowing the tooth to fit exactly in its place. The implant provides the closest result to natural tooth function by connecting directly to the bone, but requires surgery and has a long recovery time. A bridge is faster and relatively less costly, but places extra stress on the supporting teeth.

What to do if the fixed dental bridge breaks?

If your bridge breaks or becomes loose, you should first contact your dentist. If the break is a small piece of porcelain, it can often be repaired in the laboratory. If one of the support teeth is damaged, the entire bridge may need to be replaced. In case of loosening, the bridge is cleaned again and fixed with new cement. Do not try to cement a broken dental bridge yourself, as this can damage the gums and surrounding tissues. If you are in pain on the way to your dentist, you may find relief with short-term painkillers and cold compresses.

Is a Fixed Dental Bridge Harmful?

Fixed dental bridges require some abrasion of the supported teeth, which may cause sensitivity in some teeth in the long term. However, if applied correctly and regularly maintained, it does not harm, on the contrary, it supports oral health.

Does Fixed Dental Bridge Cause Pain

Since local anesthesia is applied during the treatment, the procedure is usually painless. There may be mild soreness or tenderness after the treatment, but this is temporary and most patients regain their comfort in a short time.

Can A Natural Appearance Be Achieved With A Fixed Dental Bridge?

Yes, fixed dental bridges can be aesthetically designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. When it is prepared with materials suitable for your tooth color and form, it is very difficult to be noticed from the outside.

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