Fixed crowns and bridges restore damaged or missing teeth after a careful assessment of support and bite.
A fixed dental prosthesis is a restoration that is secured in the mouth rather than removed by the patient each day. A crown covers a prepared tooth; a bridge replaces one or more missing teeth and may be supported by natural teeth or implants.
The original PG Clinics service description focuses on crowns and bridges for chewing function and appearance. A dentist selects the design and materials according to the supporting teeth or implants, gum health, available space and bite.
Different supports call for different designs. Tooth-supported bridges generally use neighbouring teeth; implant-supported bridges connect to implants. Crowns can protect or restore individual teeth when clinically appropriate. Materials may include ceramic, zirconia and metal-based options.
A crown covers a tooth that needs significant restoration. Its material and preparation depend on the remaining tooth and bite.
A conventional bridge replaces a gap using adjacent teeth as supports. Those teeth often require preparation.
Implants can support a fixed replacement without using neighbouring teeth as bridge supports, but surgery and healing are involved.
A dentist checks whether supporting teeth can be restored, whether gums are healthy and whether implant treatment is appropriate. Decay in supporting teeth is addressed before the definitive restoration. Imaging, impressions or digital scans may be needed. The number and location of missing teeth, cleaning access, bite forces and individual health all influence the recommendation. A removable option may also be worth discussing.
Examine teeth, gums, support and bite; compare fixed and removable alternatives.
Prepare supporting teeth or plan implants when indicated. A temporary restoration may be used.
Record the shape and bite with a scan or impression for laboratory production.
Check contacts, colour, fit and bite, then provide cleaning and review instructions.
The original page suggests two to four visits over roughly five to ten days for some tooth-supported restorations. Implant-supported work may involve a much longer healing phase, and the dentist will confirm your own schedule. Fixed does not mean maintenance-free: clean around crowns and under bridges using the tools recommended by your dentist, and attend reviews. A bridge may place demands on its supports; a crown may loosen, chip or develop problems around its margins. The dentist explains possible repair or replacement without promising a lifetime result.
This information is general. A qualified dental professional assesses your individual suitability, alternatives and possible risks. PG Clinics coordinates care with contracted healthcare providers.
