Dental bridges and fixed prostheses
Dental bridge permanently fixed to the neighboring teeth to replace one or more missing teeth.
What is a fixed prosthesis?
A fixed prosthesis on teeth is a dental restoration used to replace one or more lost teeth. It consists of a structure that is permanently fixed to the natural teeth adjacent to the edentulous space (where the tooth is missing) using dental cement or an anchoring system.
We explain in detail what the process is like.
What types of fixed prostheses on teeth exist?
Fixed dental prostheses are devices that are permanently cemented or adhered to natural teeth or dental implants to restore dental function and aesthetics. There are several types of fixed dental prostheses, each designed to address different needs and clinical situations. Some of the most common types of fixed dental prostheses include:
Dental crowns
Dental crowns are protective covers that are placed over a natural tooth or dental implant. They are used to restore the shape, function, and appearance of a damaged, weakened tooth or one with a previous large dental restoration. Crowns can be made of different materials, such as porcelain, metal (such as gold or noble metal alloys), or zirconia.
Dental bridges
Dental bridges are prostheses used to replace one or more lost teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) that are attached to crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges can be of various types, including traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and adhesive bridges.
It is important to note that the type of fixed prosthesis recommended may vary according to the individual needs of the patient and the health of their oral tissues. It is essential to consult a dentist or dental prosthetist to determine which is the most appropriate option in each case.
If you prefer not to prepare the neighboring teeth, the alternative is implants; we explain the price of an implant bridge and how many implants it needs. To replace a single tooth without touching the neighboring ones, the alternative is a single implant with a crown. For a few teeth, a removable partial denture is more affordable and does not require preparing the neighboring teeth, although it is less stable.
How many appointments do I need to attend to make a dental bridge?
It depends on whether any other previous treatment needs to be done, but once the bridge is prepared, a temporary is placed in a couple of hours and the patient will be scheduled for a structure test and another day for the ceramic test, in total it is four or five appointments. With the technology we have at ENIQ we can permanently cement your bridge in a maximum of two days.
Duration
Initial consultation
In this first appointment, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, examine the teeth involved, and discuss your treatment options with you. X-rays and/or dental impressions will be taken to get a clear picture of your mouth and plan the appropriate treatment.
Preparation of supporting teeth
In this appointment, the dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth that will serve as support for the bridge. A small amount of tooth enamel will be removed to create space for the placement of dental crowns. Precise dental impressions will be taken that will serve as the basis for the fabrication of the bridge in the dental laboratory.
Bridge placement
In a subsequent appointment, the dentist will place the bridge in your mouth to verify fit and appearance. Necessary adjustments will be made to ensure the bridge fits correctly. Once the fit is satisfactory, the bridge will be permanently cemented or bonded in place.
Without unpleasant impressions in alginate and silicone, using only photographic scanning of your teeth. We can also guarantee, if necessary, a temporary bridge with the highest aesthetics on the market made the same day. At ENIQ we do it with guided navigation which means that with a 3mm incision it is placed, without sutures and with hardly any postoperative discomfort.
Crowns, bridges and veneers: materials and uses
Fixed dental prostheses offer permanent solutions to restore dental function and aesthetics.
Dental crowns
They are caps that are placed over natural teeth to restore their shape, size, and function.
- Available materials: Crowns can be porcelain, metal-porcelain, or zirconia, each with its specific advantages.
- Main uses: They are used to protect weakened teeth, restore fractured or discolored teeth, or as abutments for dental bridges.
Dental bridges
They are prostheses used to replace one or more consecutive teeth.
- Structure: They consist of artificial teeth suspended between two crowns that are cemented onto adjacent natural teeth.
- Complete solution: Dental bridges can be porcelain, metal-porcelain, or zirconia, and provide an aesthetic and functional solution to replace missing teeth.
Dental veneers
They are thin sheets of porcelain or composite resin that are adhered to the front of natural teeth.
- Aesthetic improvement: Dental veneers are used to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth.
- Problem correction: They are used to correct problems such as stains, discoloration, malformations, or spaces between teeth.
Each type of fixed prosthesis is designed to address specific needs, and the choice will depend on professional evaluation and the individual needs of the patient.
What is the success rate of a fixed bridge?
What are the benefits of having a fixed bridge at ENIQ?
With all the technology, the procedure is much shorter and more pleasant, guaranteeing maximum aesthetics and quality in the treatment.
- Shorter procedure Treatment is performed in a quarter of the time compared to traditional methods.
- No unpleasant materials We use digital photographic scanning, eliminating the need for impressions with alginate and silicone.
- Maximum aesthetics We guarantee superior aesthetic results thanks to our precision 3D technology.
- Greater comfort The process is much more pleasant for the patient, with less discomfort and treatment time.
At ENIQ, we combine cutting-edge technology with professional experience to offer the highest quality fixed prosthesis treatments.
What complications can occur when a dental crown or bridge is placed?
While a fixed dental prosthesis can be an effective solution to replace lost teeth, it can also present some potential problems.
Dental sensitivity
After the placement of a fixed prosthesis, you may experience dental sensitivity, especially if part of the tooth enamel has been worn during the preparation process of the supporting teeth. This can make teeth more sensitive to cold, heat, or pressure.
Plaque accumulation and cavities
Proper oral hygiene is essential to avoid problems such as plaque accumulation and cavity formation around the supporting teeth of the prosthesis. Regular dental care and proper brushing are essential to maintain oral health.
Problems with supporting teeth
In some cases, the supporting teeth may be negatively affected by the fixed dental prosthesis. They may experience increased tension or wear due to the additional load of the artificial teeth. If this occurs, adjustments or additional treatments may be required.
Aesthetic problems
Although fixed prostheses are designed to look and feel natural, in some cases they may not perfectly match the color, shape, or size of adjacent natural teeth. This can affect dental aesthetics and the overall appearance of the smile.
It is important to maintain good communication with your dentist and make regular follow-up visits to address any problems or concerns you may have with your fixed dental prosthesis. Good oral care and proper attention can help minimize these problems and ensure the long-term success of the prosthesis.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
We have a financing system without documentation from €150 to €3000 that covers this type of treatment.
3-unit dental bridge
To replace 1 tooth
Three-piece dental bridge: its price ranges between €900 and €1,400, depending on the material used (metal-ceramic, ceramic, or zirconium). In contrast, the price of temporary acrylic bridges is usually lower (around €500).
All inclusive
4-unit dental bridge
To replace 2 teeth
Four-piece dental bridge: its price is between €1,100 and €1,600, depending on the material used (metal-ceramic, ceramic, or zirconium). In this case, the price of temporary acrylic bridges is usually lower (around €600).
All inclusive
Dental bridge prices by number of units
The number of units in a bridge includes the supporting teeth. That is why replacing a single tooth takes a 3-unit bridge: two crowns on the neighbouring teeth with the missing tooth between them.
| Missing teeth | Bridge | Guide price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tooth | 3-unit bridge | €900 – €1,400 |
| 2 adjacent teeth | 4-unit bridge | €1,100 – €1,600 |
| 3 or more teeth | 5 units or more | Quoted after assessment |
The price depends on the material (porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic or zirconia) and is confirmed at your assessment. Temporary acrylic bridges cost less: around €500 for 3 units and €600 for 4.
Frequently asked questions about dental bridges and fixed prostheses
Answers to common questions about dental bridges and fixed prostheses in Madrid. customer service.
It depends on the number of units and the material. At Clínica ENIQ, a 3-unit bridge (to replace one tooth) costs between €900 and €1,400, and a 4-unit bridge (to replace two teeth) between €1,100 and €1,600, in porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic or zirconia. The exact price is confirmed at your assessment.
It is the bridge used to replace a single tooth. It has three joined units: two crowns cemented onto the neighbouring teeth, which act as abutments, and an artificial tooth (pontic) that fills the gap. It costs from €900.
Replacing a single tooth takes a 3-unit bridge (from €900), because it rests on the two neighbouring teeth. Replacing two adjacent teeth takes a 4-unit bridge (from €1,100).
It depends on each case. A bridge rests on the neighbouring teeth, which have to be prepared for the crowns; an implant replaces the root of the missing tooth and leaves the neighbouring teeth untouched. At your assessment we check those teeth and the bone to recommend the best option.
Yes. We offer financing with no paperwork from €150 up to €3,000, which covers the cost of a dental bridge.
Yes, it is possible to have a complete fixed prosthesis. This type of prosthesis is known as fixed prosthesis on implants or "all-on-4" / "all-on-6", where a complete dental arch is supported on 4 or 6 strategically placed dental implants. This solution offers a permanent alternative to complete removable dentures, providing greater stability, comfort, and functionality. The prosthesis is screwed or cemented onto the implants and cannot be removed by the patient, offering a feeling very similar to natural teeth. This treatment requires a thorough evaluation of the patient's oral and bone health and must be performed by a specialist in implantology and prosthetics. At ENIQ, we have the technology and experience necessary to perform this type of complex treatment with predictable and lasting results.
The process of placing a fixed prosthesis on teeth involves several steps: first, the preparation of the natural teeth that will serve as support, where a small amount of tooth enamel is removed; second, taking digital or traditional impressions to obtain a precise model of your mouth; third, the design and fabrication of the prosthesis in a specialized dental laboratory, using high-quality materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia; and finally, its permanent cementation or adhesion on the prepared teeth. At ENIQ, we use state-of-the-art 3D technology that allows us to perform photographic scans without the need for unpleasant impression materials such as alginates and silicones. This makes the process much more comfortable and precise. It is important to note that treatment with fixed prosthesis on teeth must be performed by a dentist or dental prosthesis specialist to guarantee an optimal and lasting result.