Partial Fixed Bridges Missing multiple teeth has a major impact on your bite, speech, dental health, and of course, the look of your smile. If left untreated, missing teeth can have serious consequences, including jawbone deterioration, gum disease, and decay of surrounding teeth – which may lead to further tooth loss. If you are missing multiple teeth in the same area, you might be a good candidate for a partial fixed bridge. Central Dental Specialists can help you determine if a partial fixed bridge is the right treatment option for you.What Is a Partial Fixed Bridge?A dental bridge is a row of replacement teeth that is held in place either by crowns placed on healthy teeth at both sides of the gap, or by implant-supported crowns. “Partial” simply refers to the fact that the bridge contains only a few replacement teeth as opposed to a complete set. Finally, “fixed” indicates that the bridge is cemented in place using dental cement. Unlike traditional removable bridges, a partial fixed bridge is a permanent solution for the loss of multiple teeth. Who Is a Good Candidate for a Partial Fixed Bridge?If you are missing several teeth in one area rather than multiple teeth in different spots or a full row, you might be a good candidate for a partial fixed bridge. A partial fixed bridge is also a practical option for someone who would prefer a less invasive and less expensive procedure than getting individual dental implants for each missing tooth. Keep in mind that getting a partial fixed bridge might still require surgery if our team determines that you need at least one implant to support the bridge, so you would need to be healthy enough for surgery if this is the case. Your jawbone would need to be able to sufficiently support the implant. Benefits of Partial Fixed BridgesThe main benefit of a partial fixed bridge is that it is a permanent treatment option for people with multiple missing teeth. With traditional bridges, the surrounding teeth are reshaped and capped, but a partial fixed bridge does not interfere with your existing teeth. Additionally, you do not have to remove it for cleaning, and it looks and functions like your natural teeth. It is also less expensive than getting individual implants for each missing tooth. Partial Fixed Bridge PlacementThe first step of the placement is to have a consultation with one of our professionals. We will do a complete oral exam, take x-rays, and make a mold of your teeth and gums in order to determine if you will need implants or not, and how many. If at least one implant is required, you will have surgery to place the implant in the jawbone, which can take several months to heal. Once the implant has healed and fused with the jawbone, a second minor surgery is necessary to expose the implant and place a cap to help your gum heal. Once the area heals, a post is attached to the implant, we take a final impression, and you will receive a temporary bridge to protect the implant and exposed teeth. Finally, the bridge is placed, adjusted to ensure a proper fit, and bonded into place. We will give you specific follow-up care instructions at that time. If you are missing multiple teeth in one area, a partial fixed bridge can help restore the look of your smile and the overall function of your mouth and teeth. For more information, call Central Dental Specialists at (781) 438-6618. |
Central Dental Specialists |
