Crowns and Bridges Fixing
Crowns and bridges fixing is a dental procedure aimed at restoring the function and appearance of damaged or
missing teeth. Crowns and bridges are prosthetic devices that are cemented onto existing teeth or implants by
a dentist or prosthodontist. They are custom-made to fit each patient's mouth and are designed to blend
seamlessly with the natural teeth for a natural-looking smile.
Crowns, also known as dental caps, are used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth. They are often
recommended for teeth that have large cavities, fractures, or undergone root canal therapy. Crowns can also be
used to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. They are typically made from materials such
as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, which provide durability and aesthetics.
The process of fixing a crown begins with the preparation of the tooth, which involves removing a small amount
of enamel to create space for the crown. Impressions of the prepared tooth are then taken, and a temporary
crown is placed while the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory. Once the permanent crown is
ready, it is cemented onto the tooth, restoring its function and appearance.
Bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent
teeth. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are held in place by dental
crowns or implants on either side of the gap. Bridges can be made from materials similar to crowns and are
custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of the natural teeth.
The process of fixing a bridge typically involves two or more dental visits. During the first visit, the
adjacent teeth are prepared to receive the crowns, and impressions are taken to fabricate the bridge. A
temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is being made. In the
subsequent visit, the permanent bridge is cemented onto the prepared teeth, restoring the patient's ability to
bite, chew, and speak properly.
Overall, crowns and bridges fixing is an effective solution for restoring damaged or missing teeth and
improving the overall function and appearance of the smile. With proper care and maintenance, crowns and
bridges can last for many years, providing patients with long-term dental health and confidence in their
smiles.
Which teeth supports a fixed bridge?
A fixed dental bridge is a common dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by
anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. The natural
teeth or implants that support the bridge are called abutments, and they play a crucial role in
providing stability and durability to the restoration. Here's a detailed explanation of which
teeth support a fixed bridge:
1. Abutment Teeth: In traditional fixed bridges, the abutment teeth are the natural teeth
adjacent to the space left by the missing tooth or teeth. These teeth are typically prepared by
the dentist to serve as anchors for the bridge. The preparation process involves removing a small
amount of enamel from the abutment teeth to create space for the placement of dental crowns,
which will hold the pontic or pontics in place.
2. Crowned Abutment Teeth: After the abutment teeth are prepared, dental crowns are fabricated
to fit over them snugly. These crowns are custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of the natural
teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking restoration. The crowns are then cemented or bonded onto the
prepared abutment teeth, securely holding the pontic or pontics in place between them.
3. Implant-Supported Bridges: In cases where the adjacent natural teeth are not suitable as abutments
(e.g., due to decay, damage, or insufficient tooth structure), dental implants may be used to support the
bridge
. Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots.
After
the implants have integrated with the bone (a process called osseointegration), abutment components are
attached
to them, and the bridge is secured onto the implants using dental cement or screws.
4.End Abutment Teeth: In some cases, the abutment teeth may be located at one or both ends of the
bridge,
depending on the number of missing teeth and the design of the restoration. These end abutment teeth provide
stability and support to the bridge, distributing chewing forces evenly across the dental arch and preventing
strain on the remaining natural teeth or implants.
5. Fixed Bridge Design: The design of a fixed bridge may vary depending on the specific needs and
preferences
of the patient, as well as the recommendations of the dentist. Bridges can be made from various materials,
including
porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials, to achieve optimal aesthetics
and durability.
The teeth that support a fixed bridge are the abutment teeth, which are typically the
natural teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth. These abutment teeth are prepared and crowned
to serve as anchors for the bridge, providing stability and support to the restoration. In cases
where natural teeth are not suitable as abutments, dental implants may be used to support the bridge
, ensuring a secure and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.