A Fixed Partial Denture (FPD), also known as a dental bridge, is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by permanently attaching artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.
🔍 Key Features of Fixed Partial Dentures:
Fixed: Unlike removable dentures, FPDs are cemented into place and cannot be taken out by the patient.
Partial: Replaces some teeth, not all.
Denture: Refers to the artificial replacement of missing teeth.
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🧩 Types of Fixed Partial Dentures:
1. Conventional Bridge:
Anchored by crowns placed on natural teeth adjacent to the gap (called abutment teeth).
The false tooth (pontic) sits in the middle.
2. Cantilever Bridge:
Used when there's only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge.
Less common due to stress on the supporting tooth.
3. Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded FPD):
Metal or ceramic wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.
Less invasive, but less durable under strong bite forces.
4. Implant-Supported Bridge:
Supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth.
Ideal when several teeth in a row are missing.
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🦷 Indications:
One or more missing teeth in a row.
Healthy adjacent teeth (unless using implants).
Good oral hygiene and periodontal health.
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🚫 Contraindications:
Poor oral hygiene.
Weak or decayed abutment teeth.
Insufficient bone for implant support (in case of implant-supported FPD).
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✅ Advantages:
Restores function (chewing, speaking).
Aesthetic
