A fixed dental prosthesis is a method of restoring and replacing damaged or missing teeth that is permanently placed on natural teeth or dental implants and cannot be removed by the patient. This method includes dental crowns, dental bridges, and implant-supported fixed prostheses, and is performed with the aim of restoring smile aesthetics, improving chewing function, and increasing the strength of the teeth. This method has several advantages, including the following:
Individuals who have lost one or more teeth, have damaged teeth, or are seeking a fixed alternative to removable dentures may be suitable candidates for a fixed prosthesis; however, the final diagnosis is made by the dentist.
Fixed dental prostheses generally offer greater stability, comfort, and a more natural appearance compared to removable dentures. However, the appropriate choice depends on the number of missing teeth, jawbone health, and overall oral conditions.
Zirconia crowns are more similar to natural teeth in terms of aesthetics and light transmission, while PFM (porcelain‑fused‑to‑metal) crowns combine metal and ceramic, typically offering good strength at a more cost‑effective price.
A crown is used to cover and protect a single damaged tooth, whereas a bridge is a fixed prosthesis that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth.
The lifespan of a fixed dental prosthesis is usually between 10 and 15 years or more, depending on factors such as the material of the prosthesis, oral hygiene, gum health, care habits, and the dentist’s skill.
Both fixed and removable dentures are used to replace missing teeth or improve oral function, but they have important differences in terms of attachment method, stability, appearance, comfort, and care procedures. In the table below, we have provided a detailed comparison of these two methods:
| Comparison Criteria | Fixed Dental Prosthesis | Removable Dental Prosthesis |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment method | Permanently placed on abutment teeth or implants | Can be removed and reinserted by the patient |
| Stability during chewing | Greater stability and chewing power, more similar to natural teeth | May move slightly during chewing or speaking |
| Appearance of teeth | Has a more natural and harmonious appearance with the original teeth | Has an acceptable appearance but usually looks less natural |
| Comfort | Provides greater comfort and adapts more quickly in the mouth | May initially cause a feeling of a foreign object or discomfort |
| Effect on speech | Usually has no negative effect on speaking | May affect the pronunciation of some words in the early days |
| Removability | Cannot be removed by the patient; only the dentist can remove it | The patient can remove it for washing and cleaning |
| Lifespan and durability | With proper care, it generally has higher durability and longevity | Usually requires periodic replacement or adjustment |
| Need for tooth preparation | In some methods, such as bridges, abutment teeth need to be prepared | Usually can be used without extensive tooth preparation |
| Treatment cost | Usually has a higher initial cost than removable dentures | Considered a more economical option for many patients |
| Care and maintenance | Requires brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene care just like natural teeth | Requires removal, washing, and separate care |
| Suitable for whom? | Individuals seeking a fixed, aesthetic, and durable replacement | Individuals who cannot undergo fixed treatments or afford the higher cost |
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“Fixed dental prostheses” come in various types, chosen based on the condition of the teeth, the number of missing teeth, and the attachment method. The most important types are:
A dental crown is used to cover and strengthen weak, broken, or root‑canal‑treated teeth, improving appearance, strength, and function.
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth and is fixed in place with the help of adjacent teeth or implant abutments.
In this method, the prosthesis is placed on an implant abutment that is embedded in the jawbone, closely resembling a natural tooth in both appearance and function.
Zirconia crown is a type of fixed prosthesis with high strength and a natural appearance, considered a popular option due to its aesthetics, durability, and good compatibility with oral tissues.
PFM crown is a combination of metal and ceramic that offers good strength and is typically used for those seeking a durable option at a more affordable cost.
One of the points that should not be overlooked when choosing a fixed dental prosthesis is the quality of the raw materials and their compatibility with the patient’s body. The prosthesis should be made of materials that, in addition to strength and aesthetics, are biocompatible and reduce the likelihood of allergies or irritation of the gum tissue. Using low‑quality or unsuitable materials may cause problems in some individuals, such as:
For this reason, in addition to “choosing the type of prosthesis” (such as zirconia, all‑ceramic, or PFM), attention should also be paid to the quality of the dental laboratory work, the standardization of materials, the precision of the prosthesis design, and the dentist’s skill. A proper fixed prosthesis should, in addition to aesthetics, have full harmony with the gums and natural teeth to ensure long‑term function and patient comfort.
The choice between a fixed dental prosthesis and a dental implant depends on the oral condition, the number of missing teeth, jawbone health, budget, and treatment goals. Each of these methods has its own advantages and limitations. In the table below, we have compared them to help you better understand these factors and make a more informed choice:
| Comparison Criteria | Fixed Dental Prosthesis | Dental Implant |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment method | Placed on abutment teeth or implant abutments | Placed inside the jawbone and acts as the tooth root |
| Need for surgery | In most cases, does not require surgery | Requires surgery and placement of the implant fixture |
| Appearance and aesthetics | Has a natural and acceptable appearance | Provides the greatest similarity to natural teeth |
| Chewing strength | Has good chewing function | Strength and chewing power close to natural teeth |
| Preservation of jawbone | Usually does not have much effect in preventing bone resorption | Helps preserve jawbone and prevent its resorption |
| Treatment duration | Usually done faster | Requires more time due to the need for osseointegration |
| Treatment longevity | With proper care, usually has good durability | With proper care, can have very long durability |
| Treatment cost | Usually lower initial cost compared to implant | Has higher cost but offers greater durability |
| Damage to adjacent teeth | In the bridge method, may require preparation of adjacent teeth | Usually does not require preparation of healthy surrounding teeth |
| Suitable for whom? | Individuals seeking a faster treatment or a more economical option | Individuals with suitable jawbone and seeking a replacement close to natural teeth |
