Having multiple missing teeth can have a serious negative effect on both your oral health and self-confidence. Luckily, dental implant bridges do a good job at restoring both the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth. In this article, we will talk about the intricacies of dental implant bridges, shedding light on their procedure, benefits, and considerations for potential candidates. If you are looking at options for tooth replacement, or are looking for alternatives to traditional dentures, this article will help you a great deal, so keep reading.
What are dental implant bridges
A dental implant bridge is what you get when you attach a bridge to a number of dental implants. In the case of conventional bridges, the natural teeth adjacent to the natural teeth are prepared and crowned to support the prosthetic tooth or teeth bridging the gap, serving as anchors for the bridge.
Dental Implant bridges, on the other hand, are a more sophisticated approach. Instead of relying on natural teeth for support, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These implants fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for the bridge. Once the implants have integrated fully, custom-made prosthetic teeth are attached to the implants, effectively bridging the gap left by missing teeth.
Are they better than conventional bridges?
Dental implant bridges offer several advantages over conventional bridges. One key area is the preservation of the natural tooth structure that dental bridges offer. Traditional bridges require the alteration of adjacent teeth, which may compromise their health and integrity over time. In contrast, dental implant bridges do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support, thus preserving their natural structure.
Also, dental implant bridges provide enhanced stability and durability. Because they are anchored to dental implants, they offer greater resistance to movement and shifting, providing a more secure fit. This stability not only improves the function of the bridge but also enhances comfort and confidence for the patient.
Read also : What are the types of dental implants
Eligibility for dental implant bridges
- You must have adequate bone density in the jawbone to support the implants. A thorough evaluation, including dental imaging such as X-rays or CT scans, is necessary to assess bone volume.
- You should have healthy gums and be free from active periodontal disease or untreated dental infections. Any existing dental issues should be addressed before implant placement to minimise the risk of complications.
- You must be in good overall health and able to undergo oral surgery. Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, may affect healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
- Smoking can compromise the success of dental implants by inhibiting healing and increasing the risk of implant failure. If you smoke, you will be encouraged to quit or temporarily drop it before undergoing implant treatment.
- You must be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Proper oral care is essential for the long-term success of implant-supported bridges.
Read also : Can you get dental implants on the NHS?
The Procedure
Preparing the Mouth This involves a comprehensive analysis of the patient’s dental and medical history, along with a detailed examination of the teeth and jawbone. In some cases, patients may require additional imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess the condition of the jawbone and surrounding structures.
Implant Insertion
The next step is the surgical insertion of the dental implants into the jawbone. This procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. The dentist makes small incisions in the gum tissue to access the underlying jawbone, where the implants will be placed.
Temporary Restorations and Healing Process
After the implants are placed, temporary restorations (like partial dentures) may be attached to protect the surgical site and facilitate the healing process. During the healing process, the bone tissue gradually fuses with the surface of the implants in a process called osseointegration.
Impressions and Laboratory Work
Once the implants have fully integrated with the jawbone, the temporary restorations are removed, and impressions of the teeth are taken. These impressions are used to create precise moulds of the patient’s mouth, which are sent to a dental laboratory for the fabrication of the permanent implant-supported bridge.
Placement of Permanent Bridge
The final stage of the implant-supported dental bridge procedure involves the placement of the permanent prosthesis. Once the bridge has been fabricated to exact specifications, it is carefully positioned and attached to the dental implants with screws or dental cement.
Advantages of getting dental implant bridges
- They do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, preserving their natural structure and integrity.
- The integration of dental implants with the jawbone provides a secure foundation for the bridge, minimising movement and ensuring a stable fit.
- With proper care, implant-supported bridges can last for many years, providing a long-term solution for tooth replacement.
- By stimulating the underlying jawbone, dental implants help maintain bone density and prevent bone loss, promoting better oral health in the long run.
- Dental implant bridges almost have the look and feel of natural teeth, restoring both aesthetics and function.
Read also: How long does a dental implant take?
Disadvantages of getting dental implant bridges
- Dental implant bridges tend to be more expensive than traditional bridges because of the additional components involved, including dental implants and surgical procedures.
- The entire process can take several months to complete. You’ll have to undergo multiple appointments and healing periods, which will require patience and commitment.
- Successful implant placement relies on having sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implants. If you have inadequate bone volume, you will need additional procedures, like bone grafting, to augment the bone before implant placement.
In all, dental implant bridges remain an effective solution for the restoration of missing teeth. This is because the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, some of which can be mitigated. If, after reading this article, you believe that dental implant bridges are a great fit for you and you’d like to start your procedure, let us know. All you have to do is book a consultation with us, and we’ll take it from there, ensuring that you get the best possible service.
