See Also: FIXED BRIDGE(health)
fixed bridge(medicine)
Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center(health)
Hegg Memorial Health Center Avera Health(health)
Divine Providence Health Center Avera Health(health)
Dells Area Health Center Avera Health(health)
bridge(1)(dictionary)
bridge(2)(dictionary)
Bridge(health)
Bridge(medicine)

FIXED BRIDGE (health)


A fixed bridge replaces or spans the space where one or more teeth have been lost. A fixed bridge is attached to natural teeth (abutments). It is cemented into place and can only be removed by a dentist. The abutment teeth are crowned to provide strength. The ponic, or artificial tooth, is the part of the fixed bridge that replaces the missing tooth or space between the abutments. The ponic is fused to the abutments to form one piece that is cemented or bonded into place in the mouth. These restorations prevent collapse of the mouth and movement of teeth. Fixed bridges have special instructions for proper home care, which will be explained by the dentist or dental assistant upon completion of treatment. See also "Maryland Bridge."