Fixed prosthesis

What is a fixed prosthesis?

It is one that is cemented or screwed in place and is not taken out of the mouth: if it ever needs removing, only the dentist does it. There are two main types:

• Crowns (caps): they cover a natural tooth that is badly damaged, fractured or has had root canal treatment, and restore its shape and strength.
• Bridges: they replace one or more missing teeth by resting on the teeth on either side, which are reshaped to act as abutments.

When there are no teeth to rest on, or it is not advisable to reshape healthy teeth, the fixed prosthesis is attached to implants.

Materials

Today we mainly work with porcelain fused to metal, zirconia and high-aesthetic ceramics. The choice depends on the area of the mouth, the force it has to withstand and the look you are after. We explain it to you with your case in front of us.

What the process involves

1. Assessment and, if necessary, prior treatment of the tooth (root canal treatment, gums).
2. Preparation of the tooth or abutment teeth.
3. Taking records, with a traditional impression or an intraoral scanner.
4. A temporary prosthesis while the laboratory makes the final one.
5. Try-in, bite adjustment and fitting.

Care

A crown or bridge cannot get decay, but the tooth underneath and the surrounding gum can. Careful brushing, floss or interdental brushes—under a bridge you need to use a special floss—and regular check-ups. Avoid biting on hard objects. If a prosthesis becomes loose or comes off, call us and do not try to stick it back on at home.

For all the options, fixed and removable, see our page on dentures and prosthetics.

If you think this applies to you, book an appointment and we will assess it at the clinic.