A dental fixed prosthesis, also known as fixed dentures, is a permanent dental restoration that is used to replace lost teeth. These prostheses are firmly attached to the natural teeth or dental implants, thus providing a stable solution for the long term. Fixed dentures, as opposed to removable dentures that can be taken out for cleaning, are permanently kept in the mouth, hence giving a more comfortable and dependable solution. At Lema Dental Clinic, our skilled team led by Dentist Polen Akkılıç and her team, makes each prosthesis identical to the patient’s natural dental structure for a flawless and nature-mimicking result.
Fixed dentures are the ones that are usually suggested to patients who have lost their teeth either single or multiple as a result of decay, trauma, or aging. These prostheses are created from top-notch materials like porcelain, zirconia, or titanium, thus being good for the tooth’s aesthetic and its strength. A dental fixed prosthesis is not only the one that restores the function of the missing teeth but also beautifies the smile, thus improving self-confidence and general oral health. This is a staged procedure beginning with the first meeting, treatment planning, and finally the prosthesis placement.
What are Fixed Dentures?
Fixed dentures refer to prosthetic devices that help in the replacement of lost teeth and are attached to existing teeth or implants in the oral cavity. Most importantly, fixed dentures are different from removable ones, which can be detached for cleaning or eating, in that they always remain in place and thus are considered to be more comfortable, functional, and attractive. To carry out the procedure, the dentist makes a mold of the patient’s mouth to fabricate a prosthesis that fits well and securely.
It’s possible to use several types of fixed dentures such as dental bridges, crowns, and implant-supported dentures. At Lema Dental Clinic, under the guidance of Professor Doctor Coşkun Yıldız, we examine the oral condition of each patient thoroughly and decide the best suitable solution after a detailed consultation. When a patient has multiple teeth missing, implant-supported dentures are usually the best option, as they can provide stability and the results can last for a long time. Dental bridges and crowns are the most popular methods for small spaces and can be secured either on former natural teeth or implants, thus giving a dependable and beautiful result.
Types of Fixed Dentures
There are different types of fixed dentures, which are capable of offering different benefits, depending on the patient’s needs. Some of the most common types comprise implant-supported dentures, dental bridges, and crowns. Each of these prostheses has been specifically designed so as to effectively meet certain requirements and thus, as a result, achieve the best functional and aesthetic outcomes.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: They represent the most stable and long-term solution for the problem of missing teeth. Implants are inserted into the bone of the jaw through surgery, and the dentures are fixed to the implants, thus, providing a completely, firmly fitting denture of a permanent nature. Implant-supported dentures are the ‘go-to’ choice for individuals with extensive tooth loss or for those who want their dental solution to function just like natural teeth. At Lema Dental Clinic, our team that is headed by Dentist Polen Akkılıç, provides top-notch care to patients receiving implant-supported dentures through a combination of modern methods and materials.
- Dental Bridges: One of the functions of a dental bridge is to replace missing teeth. The artificial tooth, which is part of the bridge, can be attached to the neighboring natural teeth or implants. In this way, a patient can restore several teeth at the same time. This method is a less drastic treatment option compared to implant-supported dentures and nevertheless, it can deliver great aesthetic and functional results. Generally, dental bridges are recommended for those patients who have healthy teeth around the gap and these teeth are capable of supporting the bridge.
- Crowns: Crowns are mainly utilised for the purpose of rescuing single lost or damaged teeth. A crown is the one that completely covers the denture or a dental implant, thus both the strength and the appearance of the tooth are enhanced. The production of crowns is done with various strong and durable materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal alloys, with which long-lasting results can be assured.
Moreover, these fixed denture types have broadly differing pros. Our professional team at Lema Dental Clinic, composed of Professor Doctor Coşkun Yıldız, and me, will help you find the most appropriate answer to your dental concerns.
Advantages of Fixed Dentures
Fixed dentures are equipped with many features that make them preferable to removable ones. One of their most significant potentials, in fact, is the assurance to their users to bring about total tranquillity. They mitigate all the discomfort and inconvenience that come with removable dentures because they become firmly attached to the supports such as dental implants or teeth, which is why they are considered very safe. This contributes to a better quality of life in such patients, as they are open to an infinite variety of foods and activities with no fear of the occurrence of a mishap.
Moreover, the aesthetic feature of fixed dentures is the factor that most explains why people choose them over other forms of dental prosthesis. It will make the person’s smile look like a natural one since the prosthesis will be tailored according to the client’s natural teeth and that will include the size, the shape, and the color of the rest of the teeth. Another thing is that fixed dentures preserve the health of the dental structures. The jawbone deteriorates, after the loss of a tooth, but fixed dentures take care of that by offering the necessary support to the bone, just like real teeth do.
Who is a Candidate for Fixed Dentures?
Fixed dentures are a suitable option for people with several missing teeth but otherwise healthy gums and adequate bone density to be able to carry dental implants or other dental devices. The decision about using fixed dentures as a treatment depends on the dentist after consultation. The main factors that will be taken into consideration in this regard include the density of the bone, the health of the gums, and the number of teeth lost.
Under the leadership of Dentist Polen Akkılıç and her team, Lema Dental Clinic is your best choice if you need an individual assessment to find out whether you are a suitable candidate for fixed dentures. A patient who has experienced significant bone loss will be required to undergo other procedures such as bone grafting or a sinus lift before getting the prostheses if he or she wants to have proper support for the dentures. Persons who want to solve their problem of missing teeth permanently, that is, with less maintenance, will find fixed dentures as the right answer; besides, the dentures bring them both functional and aesthetic benefits.
How Long Do Fixed Dentures Last?
How durable a set of fixed dentures will be is very much reliant on the materials used to make it, the patient’s hygiene practices, and the type of dentures chosen. In general, fixed dentures have a lifespan of about 5 to 15 years, while those implant-supported are said to last the longest. In fact, with proper care like regular cleaning, refraining from eating hard or sticky foods, and going for dental check-ups, one can keep their fixed dentures for a long time.
Fixed dentures are usually first accomplished by implant placement that can last for a long time, such as 20 years or more, with proper care. Besides being a must for people who wear dentures, it is also a necessity for people who have implants to see their dentist and do some regular maintenance. At Lema Dental Clinic, we strive to provide excellent services for our patients so that they can enjoy the beauty and functionality of their fixed dentures for the longest time possible.
Common Dental Problems That Require Fixed Dentures
Firstly, a multitude of dental problems may require the application of fixed dentures. Some of these are dental caries, periodontal disease, and the situation when teeth have been damaged due to trauma. If a tooth is so severely damaged or decayed that it is impossible to restore it with a filling or perform a root canal, the usual method is to take it out and place a fixed denture instead. Fixed dentures are an excellent method to renew the functional and visual features of the mouth that have been lost.
Additionally, tooth loss due to the natural aging process, hereditary factors, or accidents, is the most common reason for fixed dentures. The absence of teeth can cause problems with functionality like difficulty in chewing and speech as well as aesthetic concerns. Fixed dentures solve all these problems as they may replace the missing teeth and thus speech and chewing become normal again, along with the aesthetics being improved.
What to Consider After a Fixed Denture?
Once a patient has fixed dentures, they must take care of the following points to ensure proper healing and functionality. Patients are to follow the aftercare instructions which are given by their dentists, avoiding hard food during the healing period, and keeping the mouth clean in a gentle way. They should also make adjustment appointments and keep the condition of their dentures under review with the help of their dentist.
Good oral hygiene of fixed dentures includes washing them frequently to avoid plaque formation and gingivitis. The dentures should be brushed gently with a soft toothbrush, and some floss should be used to clean the base where any remaining food may be present. Besides, regular dental visits will be a great support in terms of the denture condition, as well as solving any issues before they get worse.
Tips for Caring for Your Dentures
Fixed dentures need to be looked after regularly and a patient must maintain proper oral hygiene in order to keep them in good condition. Patients are recommended to clean their dentures twice or more daily by means of a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pad of non-abrasive toothpaste. At the same time, one should also floss along the denture base to free it from food debris and plaque which is the main cause of periodontal problems.
Besides, patients should be checked regularly by their dentists who will perform routine cleans and check-ups to ensure fixed dentures are stable and in good working order. At Lema Dental Clinic, we, under the leadership of Dentist Polen Akkilıc, are committed to providing support and care to patients with fixed dentures for a long-lasting result and optimal oral health.
Types of Fixed Dentures and Their Benefits
| Type of Fixed Denture | Benefits |
| Implant-Supported Dentures | Highly stable, prevents bone loss, long-lasting |
| Dental Bridges | Restores missing teeth, prevents tooth movement |
| Crowns | Suitable for individual missing teeth, enhances strength and appearance |
Frequently Asked Questions About Fixed Dentures
Fixed dentures are generally fabricated from top-notch substances like porcelain, zirconia, and titanium. These substances are selected for their durability, lifelike look, and ability to resist wear.
A dentist will check the overall health of your mouth which will include your gums and jawbone in order to figure out whether fixed dentures are a good option for you. A one-to-one consultation is essential to work out your requirements.
Fixed dentures, on the other hand, are definitely a permanent fixture and thus cannot be taken off by the patient. Nevertheless, in order to keep up with proper oral hygiene, they must be cleaned regularly.
Indeed, fixed dentures provide better comfort, stability, and a natural look than removable dentures. Moreover, they do not move and thus, do not need adhesives.
Fixed dentures help to make speech clearer by filling the spaces where teeth are missing. They allow a more natural way of speaking as compared to removable dentures which may move or cause problems in pronunciation.
No doubt about it, if the fixed dentures are broken, the parts can be put together again. But, to be on the safe side, any mending should only be done by a dentist, who will also make sure the dentures keep their function.
Dentures that are permanently fixed to the teeth should be brushed gently, flossed carefully at the base, and dental check-ups should be attended regularly for their care. In this way, they will remain in good condition and will keep their proper function.
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- Almas, K., & Finkelman, M. D. (2020). Fixed prosthodontics: Current concepts in clinical practice (2nd ed.). Wiley Blackwell.
- Koka, S., & Rho, J. Y. (2018). Bone and implant supported dentures: Restoration of function and aesthetics. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 29(1), 40-50.
