An implant supported bridge does not need the support of the two neighboring teeth. The artificial crowns are instead mounted to a dental implant.
With a traditional dental bridge, the replacement teeth are fused to two dental crowns, one on both sides of the required false teeth, and then these crowns are glued to the adjoining healthy teeth in order to hold the bridge in place. An implant supported bridge does not need the support of the two neighboring teeth. The artificial crowns are instead mounted to a dental implant. The implant is positioned in the jaw alongside the gap in your smile. If there is not enough bone to support the dental implant, the bone can be built up with a bone grafting procedure before the actual implant procedure begins. The bridge’s crowns are attached to the implants’ abutments, which are small connectors that link the bridge to the implant.
Implant Dentistry and Periodontics will help you with your decision when it comes to considering an implant supported bridge. We offer a vast range of important periodontal and dental implant services. Our very thoughtful and composed staff work together on a team goal of providing you with the best quality service for your overall oral health. We will discuss your dental concerns in a peaceful, tranquil environment, and approach your dental care as an important partner on your health care team. If you would like to have an evaluation about the potential of an implant supported bridge to improve your life, call our Indianapolis office at 317-574-0600 or our Fishers office at 317-842-2273 to schedule your appointment today.
The Pros and Cons of an Implant Supported Bridge
The most obvious cons of an implant-supported bridge are the length of time it takes for all the stages of treatment to be complete, and the cost of this multi-step procedure will be more than a traditional bridge. Despite these downfalls, most of the patients at Implant Dentistry and Periodontics find that the pros of an implant supported bridge outweigh these few cons.
An implant supported bridge does not require any alteration to your natural teeth. The two adjoining teeth do not need to undergo the prep to support crowns. The dental implants will hold your bridge securely so that it feels and functions just like your natural teeth and is just as easy to care for. Dental implants will also act as artificial tooth root, which stimulate the jaw to maintain density and prevent jawbone atrophy. The life expectancy of an implant supported bridge will be superior to that of a traditional bridge as well. Since we are not putting crowns on two natural teeth the restoration looks even more natural.
Are You a Candidate for an Implant Supported Bridge?
Most people are qualified to have a single dental implant at Implant Dentistry and Periodontics. However, because an implant-supported bridge requires a second implant, we will want to make sure that your jaw is strong enough and that there is adequate bone density. We will conduct an oral examination and capture digital X-rays before we start the procedure.
Also, as a dental implant patient you must be committed to maintaining exceptional oral hygiene. An implant supported bridge will be a permanent prosthetic that must be cleaned just like your natural teeth. Without the attachments to the adjoining teeth, you will be able to floss daily and the artificial crowns need to be brushed as well. Regular checkups every six months are strongly encouraged as well.
At Implant Dentistry and Periodontics, we offer a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services. Our caring and compassionate team has one collective priority and that is your smile.
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The Implant Supported Bridge Procedure
An implant-supported bridge will require several stages of treatment, which are usually spaced out over the span of about six to nine months. First, after the initial evaluation has confirmed the necessary bone density, we will surgically place the dental implants into the jawbone beneath the area of tooth loss. After this surgery, the bone tissues need sufficient time to grow and fuse with the dental implants in a process called osseointegration.
After osseointegration is finished, the second stage of treatment is scheduled. During this second procedure we will attach abutment posts, or extensions, to the implants. After this step of treatment, the gums will again need about two weeks to heal.
The final stage of implant supported bridge treatment involves the actual placement of the custom designed bridge to the implants. A special dental compound is used to bond the dental bridge, with several artificial crowns, to the abutment posts. This secures your new dental bridge so that it becomes like a natural part of the smile.
Receiving an implant supported bridge will require several appointments with Implant Dentistry and Periodontics.
With your continued preventative oral hygiene care at home and scheduling your regular dental checkups every six months, your implant supported bridge will last for decades, and you will be able to smile and eat all the foods you enjoy. Your smile will be perfectly natural, you will have no stability issues with biting, chewing, and speaking, and the artificial root of the implant maintains the health of the jawbone so you will not experience any changes in your facial structure.
Earning your Trust with High Quality Periodontal Care
When you schedule a visit with our conscientious team at Implant Dentistry and Periodontics, you will be impressed with our level of professionalism but also that we are a caring and friendly team that has the most advanced dental technology at our disposal in our clinic. We are thoughtful and thorough because we understand exactly how unique and different each patient really is. We deliberately take our time planning your personalized treatments, to ensure success that works for your desires and budget. We work diligently to establish value back into your undervalued personal asset, your smile, so every dental procedure we perform for you is with only your best interests and oral health in mind.
At Implant Dentistry and Periodontics, we offer a calm and relaxing environment, and we want you to be confident with our abilities and services. Scheduling an appointment for a potential implant supported bridge procedure is an important step towards being proactive in your oral health and regaining your healthy smile. To schedule an appointment, call our Indianapolis office, 8801 North Meridian St., Ste 103, Indianapolis, at 317-574-0600 or our Fishers office, 9885 E. 116th St, Ste 300, Fishers, at 317-842-2273.