Biomechanical Considerations of Fixed Partial Dentures : Fundamentals of Fixed Prosthodontic Therapy

Sound preparation design enhances longevity for majority of the restorations. Dentistry has come a long way from an empirical art to a well-developed sophisticated science with a background. This has been made possible with the understanding of biomechanical principles. A prosthesis is a mechanical device which has to be accommodated harmoniously in a biological environment i.e. the oral cavity and the associated structures of the stomatognathic system. A thorough understanding of the biomechanical principles facilitates any treatment. This text is an effort to uplift the scientific basis for fixed prosthodontic therapy and dentistry at large. It will not only help the specialist but also a general dentist to do a fixed prosthodontic procedure with every understanding of the possible outcome. Perspective diagnosis and disciplined tooth preparation following the biomechanical principles can determine the success of a fixed partial denture because abutment teeth have the additional responsibility of supporting a fixed prosthesis over an edentulous space. Reduction of tooth structure is preceded by a mental image of the design of the planned prosthesis and the anticipated occlusion.