What Are Fixed Bridges?

Fixed bridges replace missing teeth. They are usually made of metal metal/gold or where appearance is important, porcelain faced metal/gold.

Fixed bridege prevent the development of bite problems and save remaining teeth

Are Fixed Bridges Necessary?

Often many people who lose a back tooth are inclined to do nothing to replace it. After all, the tooth never was visible. Unfortunately, losing a tooth can start a vicious cycle of destruction.

In a normal, heavy mouth your teeth have a natural, balance. Each upper tooth contact the corresponding lower tooth, allowing for well-balanced chewing function. Losing a tooth quickly destroys this balance.

A normal healthy set of teeth

A functional mouth has 28 teeth (14 upper and 14 lower). They work as a team. Each tooth has three or four companion teeth; the neighboring teeth, one or two biting partners in the opposite arch. These companion teeth provide support and stability.

Drifting, shifting and periodontal diseases and abnormal decay areas are some of the problems that can occur when your tooth loses the support of a companion. Statistics suggest that this neighbor tooth will be lost next. Then, the next closest neighbor is subjected to the same conditions. With each tooth lost, the problems are magnified. The cycle thus continues.

In the picture given, a lower molar has been lost. Its neighbors and biting partners are jeopardized. This is what can happen:

 

Several things can occur if a tooth is missing and there is no bridge for support

• 1. The opposing molar may super erupt
• 2. The unprotected ridge is subject to trauma
• 3. The neighbor teeth tilt, destroying proper functional balance
• 4. Drifting teeth increases the risk of periodontal diseases
• 5. Bone is destroyed as teeth drift and tip

What will a fixed bridge do?

A fixed bridge will accomplish the following:

• 1. Replacing missing teeth
• 2. Help balance the normal bite
• 3. Help prevent unnatural stress on the dental ridge
• 4. Prevent over-eruption of opposing teeth
• 5. Prevent drift and tilt of adjacent teeth
• 6. Help prevent formation of decay in abnormal areas.
• 7. Help retard the onset of periodontal diseases

How Is A fixed Bridge Attached?

Fixed bridges are attached to abutment teeth. Dental restoration, called abutment inlays, or crowns, fasten the bridge to the abutment teeth. The pontic is soldered to the abutment inlays, or crowns. Then, the completed fixed bridge (crown abutments and pontic) is cemented in place.

The pontic is soldered to the abutment crowns.Then, the completed fixed bridgfe is cemented in place to restore the natural balance.

Summary:
If you lose a tooth, you can avoid unwanted problems and save remaining teeth, by obtaining a fixed bridge. The best time to do so is immediately after your tooth is lost.