Must a fixed dental bridge consist of three crowns?
May 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
In general, a fixed dental prosthesis does not necessarily have to consist of three units—it may require three, four, or even more units. A fixed dental prosthesis is a restoration used to replace one or several missing teeth in the dental arch. It is typically attached via adhesive or mechanical fixation to prepared abutment teeth or implants on both sides of the edentulous space, thereby restoring the anatomical form and physiological function of the missing teeth.
In general, a fixed dental prosthesis does not necessarily have to consist of three units—it may require three, four, or even more units depending on the situation. The details are as follows:
1. Three Units
A fixed dental prosthesis is a restoration used to replace one or several missing teeth in the dental arch. It is typically attached to prepared abutment teeth or dental implants on both sides of the gap using dental cement or mechanical fixation, thereby restoring the anatomical form and physiological function of the missing teeth. If a patient is missing one tooth and the adjacent teeth are relatively healthy, usually only one fixed bridge is needed, which involves three teeth. Specifically, the two neighboring healthy teeth are ground down into appropriate shapes to support the bridge. Then, a framework is placed between these two teeth, and finally, the artificial tooth is secured onto this framework.
2. Four or More Units
If a patient is missing two adjacent teeth, generally one fixed bridge is still sufficient, but two connectors (or pontics) are included in the bridge design, involving a total of four teeth. However, if the two missing teeth are not adjacent, two separate fixed bridges are usually required, involving a total of six teeth.
In summary, a fixed dental prosthesis does not have to be limited to three units; treatment typically starts at three units. It is important to note that fixed prostheses require precise planning and execution by a qualified dentist, so treatment should be performed at a professional dental clinic. When choosing a treatment option, a comprehensive evaluation should be made based on individual oral conditions, dental health status, and specific treatment needs. The dentist will then develop a personalized treatment plan according to the patient’s unique circumstances.
