What Is a Fixed Dental Bridge?
A fixed dental bridge is a custom prosthetic designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored in place by dental crowns attached to neighboring teeth or implants. Unlike removable dentures, fixed bridges stay securely in place and are not taken out daily. At our Wilmington, NC dental office, we offer fixed dental bridges as a reliable and long-lasting solution to restore both function and appearance.
Traditional and Cantilever Bridges
Traditional dental bridges are supported by two dental crowns, one on each side of the gap, placed over healthy neighboring teeth. This is the most common type of bridge and provides reliable, natural-looking results.
Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the restoration. While still effective, these are less common due to the uneven force they place on the supporting tooth and are typically reserved for specific situations near the back of the mouth.
Implant-Supported Bridges
For greater strength and longevity, implant-supported bridges are anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are titanium posts placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. These provide a stable foundation for the bridge and eliminate the need to alter healthy neighboring teeth.
Implant-supported bridges are particularly beneficial when replacing three or more teeth or when surrounding teeth aren’t strong enough to support a traditional bridge. They offer superior function and help maintain the bone structure beneath the gums, which supports a more youthful facial appearance.
The Benefits of Fixed Bridges vs. Removable Partial Dentures
Fixed bridges provide significant advantages over removable partial dentures, especially regarding stability, appearance, and comfort. Many patients who have tried removable dentures find that a fixed solution gives them better long-term results and greater confidence.
Fixed bridges:
- Stay securely in place without adhesives or clasps
- Provide full chewing function and clearer speech
- Blend naturally with surrounding teeth
- Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap
- Are easier to maintain than removable prosthetics
For patients who need to replace multiple teeth, we also offer advanced cosmetic denture solutions based on neuromuscular and cosmetic dental principles. These restorations do more than replace teeth—they help restore the structure and volume of the lower face, which can soften wrinkles and improve overall facial harmony. These prosthetics are carefully designed to support a youthful profile and a balanced bite.
Why Dental Implants Make Bridges Stronger
When it comes to durability, implant-supported bridges offer unmatched stability and longevity. Dental implants fuse with the jawbone, acting like natural tooth roots. This holds the bridge securely and helps stimulate the bone to prevent resorption, a common cause of sunken cheeks and premature facial aging.
Implants also eliminate the need to alter healthy teeth. With traditional bridges, the neighboring teeth must be reshaped and fitted with crowns to support the bridge. Implants allow your natural teeth to remain untouched while providing even stronger support for your restoration.
Key advantages of implant-supported bridges include:
- Better bone preservation
- Reduced risk of bridge failure
- No stress on natural teeth
- More natural feel and function
Dentures and Facial Rejuvenation Bridges
While removable dentures remain a viable option for some, today’s fixed prosthetics offer a more advanced and cosmetically pleasing alternative. At our office, we design full-arch restorations that don’t just replace teeth—they help rejuvenate your appearance.
Using principles of neuromuscular dentistry, we carefully assess jaw position, muscle balance, and facial support before designing your bridge or prosthetic. These considerations allow us to restore lost facial volume, support lips and cheeks, and create a more youthful appearance overall.
Our cosmetic denture and bridge options:
- Improve facial profile and support
- Address bite alignment for better comfort
- Are designed to enhance natural beauty and symmetry
Who Makes a Good Candidate for a Fixed or Implant-Supported Bridge?
We evaluate each patient thoroughly to determine the best tooth replacement option based on your oral health, lifestyle, and goals. Fixed and implant-supported bridges may be ideal if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth in the same area
- Prefer a secure, non-removable prosthesis
- Want to avoid removable partial dentures
- Have healthy adjacent teeth or sufficient bone for implants
- Seek a natural-looking solution that restores both function and appearance
Our comprehensive consultation includes digital imaging, bite analysis, and a thorough discussion of all your options.
The Treatment Process
Getting a fixed bridge involves several key steps to ensure a successful outcome. Throughout the process, we focus on accuracy, comfort, and long-term function.
Consultation and Imaging
We begin with a full evaluation using digital X-rays and scans to assess the area of tooth loss and determine the best approach.
Tooth or Implant Preparation
If using natural teeth, we prepare them for crowns. If implants are part of your plan, we coordinate placement and healing.
Temporary Bridge Placement
A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the area and maintain function while your final restoration is crafted.
Final Restoration and Placement
We use partner labs to design your permanent bridge. It is then securely placed, adjusted, and polished for optimal fit and comfort.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
We monitor your bite and the integrity of your restoration over time and provide personalized hygiene instructions.
Why Choose Kuzma Advanced Dentistry
Along with their experienced team, Dr. Michael Kuzma and Dr. Hailey Kuzma combine restorative expertise, aesthetic precision, and advanced technology to provide fixed bridges that do more than replace teeth—they rebuild smiles.
Our patients benefit from:
- In-depth smile planning with neuromuscular analysis
- Digital scanning technology for precise mapping of the treatment area
- A patient-centered approach with sedation options for comfort
- Long-term results that restore confidence and oral health
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re missing one or more teeth and looking for a solution that combines strength, beauty, and facial support, a fixed or implant-supported bridge may be right for you. Contact Kuzma Advanced Dentistry in Wilmington at (910) 392-6060 to begin your personalized consultation.
