Fixed Dental Prosthesis

Fixed dental prostheses are artificial teeth permanently placed to replace the patient's lost teeth. Fixed dental prostheses, which complete oral and dental aesthetics, also restore the patient's lost chewing and speech functions. Fixed prostheses, which can be applied in different types such as crowns, laminate veneers, bridges, and implant-supported prostheses, are prepared in certain stages by specialist dentists and offer long-term use. Specialist Dentist Emin Serhat Arıkan, who serves patients in Adana, explained what fixed dental prostheses are and in which situations they are applied.

What is a Fixed Prosthesis?

Fixed dental prostheses are artificial teeth applied to replace the patient's lost teeth and offer permanent use. Individuals experiencing tooth loss for any reason can opt for fixed dental prostheses both for aesthetic reasons and to regain chewing and speech functions. Unlike removable prostheses, fixed prostheses do not need to be taken out and are fixed by the dentist onto the natural tooth or an implant. There are many types of fixed prostheses such as implant-supported prostheses, crowns, and bridges. Fixed prostheses provide a natural tooth appearance and offer patients long-term use. Therefore, it is a frequently preferred dental treatment today.

What are the Types of Fixed Dental Prostheses?

Today, there are many types of fixed dental prostheses applied within the scope of prosthetic dental treatment. Any of these types can be chosen depending on the patient's oral structure, the location of the missing tooth, and the patient's general health status. If we were to list the most commonly preferred types of fixed prostheses:

• Crown
• Bridge
• Inlay and Onlay Fillings
• Laminate Veneer (Porcelain Veneer)
• Implant-Supported Fixed Prostheses

Who Can Be Treated with Fixed Dental Prostheses?

Fixed dental prostheses are mostly applied in cases where one or several teeth are lost. Fixed dental prostheses are used to maintain oral health, improve aesthetic appearance, and regain lost chewing and speech functions. If there are no issues with the adjacent teeth next to the lost tooth, the bridge method is generally preferred. However, fixed prosthesis application may not meet the needs of every patient. For fixed prosthesis treatment to be applicable, the patient must meet certain criteria.

If we were to list the patient groups to whom fixed prosthesis treatment can be applied:

• Individuals who have lost one or more teeth
• Individuals with healthy teeth and gums
• Patients with suitable jawbone quantity and density
• Individuals who want to achieve aesthetic integrity
• Those who wish to regain speech and chewing function can have a fixed prosthesis done.

How is a Fixed Dental Prosthesis Made? What are the Stages of Production?

Firstly, we should state that the stages of prosthesis production may vary depending on the individual's dental and oral health. Treatment planning is done according to the patient's conditions and needs. The number of missing teeth and the patient's jawbone are factors influencing treatment planning. The goal during the prosthesis production phase is to meet the patient's aesthetic and functional requirements. The stages of fixed dental prosthesis production are generally as follows:

• Examination and X-ray imaging
• Shaping the teeth as required
• Taking impressions from the patient
• Preparation of temporary prostheses
• Preparations required in the laboratory
• Application of the fixed prostheses
• Performing final checks and adjustments.

Examination and X-ray Imaging

First, the patient's general condition, oral and dental health are evaluated by the dentist. Then, the patient's needs are analyzed using imaging technologies. Fixed prosthesis treatment is planned in light of the data obtained.

Shaping the Teeth

The tooth or teeth to which the fixed prosthesis will be applied are brought into a suitable form for prosthetic treatment. If a bridge is desired, the adjacent teeth may need to be filed appropriately. If an implant is to be applied to the patient, the patient's bone quality and density are evaluated. The shape and size of the teeth are made compatible with the prosthesis to be created.

Taking Impressions

Detailed and precise impressions are taken from the patient's mouth. This aims for the prosthesis to fit perfectly into the patient's mouth. Special molds are used for the impression procedure, and the exact position of the prosthetic tooth is determined.

Production of Temporary Prostheses

After the impressions are taken, a temporary prosthesis is prepared for the patient's use. These temporary prostheses allow the patient to use their oral and dental functions until the permanent prosthesis is ready.

Laboratory Preparation

The impressions taken from the patient are sent to the laboratory where the prosthesis will be prepared. Fixed dental prostheses to be used by the patient are prepared by specialists, based on the impressions. The prosthesis is prepared to match the structure and color of the patient's teeth. This process may take a few days to ensure the prosthesis looks as aesthetic and natural as possible.

Application of the Fixed Prosthesis

After the fixed prosthesis is prepared, the stage of placement in the patient's mouth begins. The prosthesis is ensured to sit properly in the mouth and look natural. The fixed prosthesis is cemented onto the tooth or the implant.

Final Checks and Adjustments  

After the patient starts using the prosthesis, it is checked whether the patient is experiencing any discomfort. Small adjustments and revisions are made if necessary. However, it may take a few days for the patient to adapt to the prosthetic teeth.

What are the Advantages of Fixed Dental Prostheses?

• Providing a natural and aesthetic appearance
• Being a permanent, durable, and long-lasting treatment option
• Providing comfortable use
• Eliminating the loss of chewing and speech functions resulting from missing teeth.
• Helps in maintaining oral health.

What are the Disadvantages of Fixed Dental Prostheses?

• Teeth need to be prepared for prosthetic treatment before fixed dental prostheses are applied.
• Cannot be applied to patients suffering from advanced bone issues and gum problems.
• Can be considered a costly treatment option.
• Since they are fixed, the patient must seek assistance from a dentist if they wish to have them removed.
• If the fixed prosthesis is not placed correctly, it may create a risk of tooth decay.

Maintenance and Cleaning of Fixed Prostheses

For fixed prostheses to be used for a long time, the patient must pay great attention to oral care and hygiene. Bacteria and plaque accumulating around prosthetic teeth, which look like natural teeth, increase the patient's risk of developing tooth and gum diseases. Individuals undergoing fixed prosthesis treatment must pay great attention to oral and dental care. The points to consider for the maintenance of fixed prosthetic teeth are as follows:

• Interdental cleaning
• Brushing teeth at least twice a day
• Using antibacterial mouthwash
• Having regular dental scaling (tartar removal)
• Attending regular dentist check-ups

Prices of Fixed Dental Prostheses

The prices and costs of fixed dental prostheses can vary depending on numerous different factors. Many factors, such as the quality of materials used in prosthesis production, the technological equipment used by the clinic, and the expertise and experience of the dentist, affect the price of fixed prostheses. To get up-to-date and clear information about fixed dental prosthesis prices, you can contact Specialist Dentist Emin Serhat Arıkan, who serves patients in Adana.