OVERVIEW ABOUT FIXED PROSTHODONTICS

I. Definition

  1. Fixed prosthodontics is both a science and an art, aiming to restore the crown portion of one or more missing teeth and related structures, in order to regain oral function for the patient.

Fixed prosthodontics are securely attached within the mouth and cannot be removed by the patient.

Fixed prosthodontics can be made from materials such as metal, porcelain, resin, composite, and more.

  1. A good fixed prosthodontics should achieve the following objectives:
    • Function
    • Aesthetics
    • Durability
    • Preventive care

II. Classification of Fixed Prosthodontics

  1. Inlay/onlay

Inlay: is a type of fixed prosthodontics that is placed inside a previously prepared tooth cavity and cemented in place. Typically, inlays are positioned within the tooth crown, surrounded by tooth structure, which is why they are also referred to as intracoronal restorations.

Some variations of Inlay:
Onlay: When an Inlay extends to cover both the chewing surface and the proximal surfaces, it is referred to as an Onlay. Onlays can be made from materials such as metal, porcelain, composite, etc.
  1. Veneer:
    Veneer: covers a portion of the outer surface, made of porcelain either bonded to a metal substructure or entirely of porcelain, to meet aesthetic requirements.
  1. Crown
    Definition
    A dental crown is a cap with the shape of a tooth that restores either the entire or a portion of an individual tooth after it has been prepared, depending on the type of dental crown prescribed.
a. Full Metal Crown
Full Metal Crown: a crown that completely covers all 5 surfaces of the tooth. Full metal crowns are typically used for posterior molars.
b. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crown
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crown: A full crown with a metal substructure that is covered on the outside with a layer of porcelain.
c. All-Ceramic Crown
All-Ceramic Crown: A type of full crown made entirely of ceramic material.
d. Partial Crown
Three-Quarter or Four-Fifths Crown: This type of crown covers three out of four surfaces for premolars and canines, and four out of five surfaces for molars.
4. Post and Core
A post and core restoration is a fixed dental prosthesis used to restore a tooth where only a portion of the root remains. The post and core consist of a post, which is inserted into the root of the tooth, and a core, which extends outside the root. The outer core can be made of materials such as porcelain, resin, composite, or metal.
5. Bridge
A  bridge, also known as a fixed partial denture, is a prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike removable partial dentures, the patient cannot remove a fixed bridge from their mouth; it is cemented or attached to the patient’s teeth by a dentist.

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