What it is
Oral rehabilitation restores function, comfort and appearance to teeth that are badly damaged, worn or missing. A fixed prosthesis is cemented or screwed in place and is not removed by the patient.
The most common solutions are crowns, which cover a weakened tooth, and bridges, which replace one or more teeth by resting on neighbouring teeth or implants. They are made of ceramic, zirconia or porcelain fused to metal, depending on the case.
When it may be recommended
- A tooth that has lost a lot of structure through decay, fracture or large fillings.
- A tooth that has had root canal treatment, especially back teeth.
- Replacing missing teeth.
- Marked tooth wear that affects the bite.
What happens
- Clinical and radiological assessment and treatment plan.
- Preparing the tooth or implants and recording the shape of the teeth (conventional or digital impression).
- Fitting a temporary restoration.
- Try-in and fitting of the final crown or bridge, with bite adjustment.
- Regular check-ups.
Potential benefits
- Protects weakened teeth against fracture.
- Restores chewing and appearance.
- A fixed solution that does not need to be removed for cleaning.
Limitations and precautions
- Crowns and bridges on natural teeth require part of the tooth structure to be removed.
- The tooth may need root canal treatment first.
- Ceramic can chip or fracture, especially in people who grind their teeth (bruxism).
- Decay can develop at the edge of a crown if hygiene is not adequate; bridges need special floss or interdental brushes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a crown last?
It depends on the material, hygiene and each person’s habits. With good care and regular check-ups, it can last many years.
Bridge or implant?
Both are valid options. The choice depends on the condition of the neighbouring teeth and bone, and is discussed at the appointment.
What fixed solutions are there when many or all teeth are missing?
When tooth loss is extensive or total, fixed implant-supported restorations can be planned, including full-arch restorations (All-on-X). The solution depends on the available bone, your general health and your goals, and is decided after a clinical and radiological assessment.
Why does planning start with the prosthesis?
Because the goal is the end result: chewing, appearance, comfort and ease of cleaning. Defining the intended restoration first guides the decisions that follow, such as the number and position of implants or how the teeth are prepared.
I was told I don’t have enough bone. Can I still have a fixed restoration?
In many cases, yes. There are bone regeneration techniques and alternative anchorage solutions for patients with little bone. Only a clinical and radiological assessment, often with a CT/CBCT scan, can show which options suit your case.
Results and treatment times vary from person to person. Treatment is only recommended after an assessment appointment.