Fixed Prosthetics
Fixed prosthetics simply means any restorative dentistry that is placed in our patient's mouths remains there permanently. It is NOT removable. Two visits are usually required these types of procedures.
Inlays and onlays may be considered as a "partial" crown. This is a more conservative approach to save tooth structure but still provide a permanent restoration that will usually last longer than a plastic composite filling. These can be made out of tooth colored materials or gold. Both are suitable for long term protection; however, the gold might last a bit longer due to their metal properties.
Crowns or "caps" are designed to cover the entire tooth. Think of it as a thin "shell" that is placed over the tooth. Usually when more than 60 – 70% of the natural tooth is missing due to dental decay or tooth fractures, a full coverage crown is placed. Once again these are permanent restorations that are NOT removable.
Bridges are multiple crowns that are splinted together and are used to replace missing teeth. They are NOT removable. It's a viable solution for patients who do not want removable appliances in their mouths or choose not to have implants either. As long as the periodontal conditions are healthy around the supporting teeth, bridges can provide a very stable and comfortable alternative to replace missing teeth.