Complete Fixed Bridge
Richmond, VA
 Full arch restorations that lean on dental implants and artificially created teeth are commonly called complete fixed bridges. Usually made from porcelain or similar materials, their main function is to support our bite force and blend in with the rest of the natural teeth. Often called a pontic tooth, dental bridges need abutments to stay intact on either side of the tooth enamel.
With fixed bridges, the teeth adjacent to the gap will need to be crowned as well. Often called abutment teeth, they will act as support to the pontic in the middle. Since they are cemented into the gap, these can only be checked and removed by a professional health care provider. To find out if you are a candidate for a complete fixed bridge, visit us at Riverwind Dental.
Complete Fixed Bridges vs Dental Implants
Although both would need a consultation visit with a dentist first followed by a complete oral and health checkup, the surgery for each will take a drastically different approach. Dental implants are made from titanium screws that are surgically placed into your jaw line, creating a foundation for the replacement teeth. Whereas the surgery for complete fixed bridges is carried out in two parts.
The first surgery involves removing redundant teeth and making a cut where the implant will be placed. Once an implant has properly fused with the bone, the incision will be sealed and that will complete the first surgery. Once the incision has healed properly, your healthcare provider will then reopen each incision and place a collar underneath the implant.
Benefits of Complete Fixed Bridge
Compared to conventional dentures, complete fixed bridges have shown better results both in terms of functionality and aesthetics. As far as the looks are concerned, our healthcare providers are able to synthetically manufacture artificial teeth that match your natural teeth almost perfectly. This can help bring back your natural smile and boost your confidence in social circumstances.
Fixed dental bridges are more comfortable and easy to maintain compared to other temporary alternatives like a partial fixed bridge or dentures. By providing support on either side of the gap, they can help avoid the adjacent teeth from crookedly shifting towards the gap. Compared to dental implants, the overall surgery and healing process takes much less time and can be completed within a few weeks.
Disadvantages of Complete Fixed Bridges
Unlike dental implants, fixed bridges rely on anchoring support from nearby teeth. This could result in unavoidable loss of healthy natural teeth in order for the abutment teeth to be placed in. Furthermore, the bone underneath the bridge may not receive the required stimulation for natural growth. In some cases, the new tooth can put additional stress on the abutment teeth, causing gaps to form and thereby increasing the chances of tartar build up or bacterial infection.
If you are considering getting restorative surgery, there are many options to be considered these days. Our professional staff at Riverwind Dental are always eager to assist you in finding the best options for treating missing teeth. You can also call us at (804) 280-0853 to book your appointment in advance. |
