How Many Teeth Does an Implant Supported Bridge Have?
An Implant supported bridge can generally replace 2-14 teeth. The number of actual implants will depend on the amount of teeth you are replacing, and the strength of your support structures; i.e. your jaw and gums. If you need more than 14 teeth replaced, implant procedures can help you–but it would probably be called a full mouth dental implant as opposed to an implant supported bridge.
What is an Implant Supported Bridge? How does it differ from a traditional bridge?
A bridge typically connects two points, the same is true with a dental bridge. Two places of healthy bone structure on the adjacent sides of a row of missing teeth are used to bind a row of replacement teeth. The bridge functions to hold the spacing of your lost teeth. Losing teeth has the unfortunate downside of causing more missing teeth. If you do not act quickly in replacement options, you may begin to notice wiggling and looseness in the teeth surrounding that area. Bridges help to solve this problem by keeping your teeth in place.
Implant supported bridges do not require the other tooth structures to be effective. In fact, implants can be added to areas which are not exhibiting strength, as a sort of stimulus package. When the implant is inserted into the jaw, it reactivates the tissues of the area and encourages growth. Without some sort of stimulation, these tissues will eventually break down and go elsewhere in your body–which is why you lose teeth and jaw mass. Implant support procedures require a little longer process, but once the bridge and implant are secure they are as easy as your original teeth. You will care for them like your own, and they will not be removed unless to make a small adjustment or repair something.
What are the kinds of Implant Supported Bridges?
The typical implant bridge involves two implants, and 3-4 missing teeth. The implant anchors are inserted into the space of the teeth on the edge, measurements are taken of your mouth, along with x rays, and the bridge is created. After healing time, the implant is affixed and your off and running. The implant anchor will take somewhere between 2-6 months to heal on average, depending on your total health and dental health history.
The Cantilever Bridge involves a single implant replacing 2 teeth which are very near to each other. Usually one tooth is smaller or lines up at a curved angle. This is not advised for anything over two teeth, but it is crucial when there are two teeth in an area which would not fit multiple implants.
Individual Implants and Full Mouth Dental Implants are not typically considered bridges, however in the design sometimes rows of teeth are constructed as a bridge. This will all depend on your health and your dental care professional. Be sure to ask questions and get clear expectations and instructions on how to care for your implants, as they are specific to each person.