What is an Implant Supported Bridge?
Losing one tooth can very easily lead to damage to adjacent teeth and gums, and this is what led to the innovation of the dental bridge. A dental bridge fills in the space of missing teeth with aesthetic and durable replacement teeth that are adhered to healthy tooth structure on either side. Using an implant to support the structure of the bridge provides huge benefits for your teeth, jaw, gums, and your smile. It also provides flexibility, the anchor can be placed anywhere in your mouth, which is helpful for crowns at the end of a row. Speak with a dentist today to discuss implant supported crowns, your dental health, and what options are best for your situation. If you are missing multiple teeth in a single row, than an implant supported bridge may be the perfect solution to your dental dilemma.
What is an Implant Supported Bridge?
A dental implant is a support structure wherein a strong dental anchor is placed into your jaw, and a replacement tooth is affixed to that anchor. It creates a complete replacement tooth. The binding inside the jawbone and gums stimulates activity in the osteoplasts, the cells in your bones. This stimuli leads to growth of the bone and gums around the implant, and strengthens your whole mouth. The implant can be supported with the use of multiple anchors, or a combination of implants and healthy tooth structure. The options are varied and flexible, and the benefits are numerous. You regain confidence in your smile, you gain ownership over your diet again, and you continue to strengthen your jaw for positive dental health; it’s all wins.
What do you need for an implant supported bridge?
First, seek a comprehensive examination. You should take recent x rays and schedule a consultation. Your dentist or specialist will advise you on whether your gum and jawbones are qualified for the implant procedure. Be transparent and upfront with an previous history of infection or tooth loss. The whole health history of your teeth and gums is important to consider for the process. That being said, dental implants are very common and occur every day. If your dentist decides there is a lack of healthy jaw tissue for implantation, you may also consider bone grafting to strengthen and invigorate the support structures in your jaw.
Comparing Implant Bridges with Traditional Bridges
Traditional Bridges require less time. The bridges can be affixed much quicker after they are fabricated and fitted to your mouth. They can be made from the same high quality materials, but they only cover the gums, they do not strengthen and support them like an implant.
Implant supported bridges require a recovery time. After the implant anchor is inserted, it can take a couple of months for the jaw and gums to heal and accept the implant. Once osseointegration is complete, the jaw is stronger than before though, and the implants can be attached in a short procedure in the office.