What Is an Implant Bridge?

If you are missing multiple teeth, your dentist may recommend an implant bridge as a treatment option. A gap in your smile may affect your speaking and chewing abilities. It may also impact your self-esteem. Replacing missing teeth with an implant bridge can help to address these problems and improve your smile.

Implant bridge

Empty spaces or gaps left by lost teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to shift into the empty space. This usually results in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by the lost teeth can also lead to gum disease or cause other problems. Bridges are common options for replacing lost teeth.

A fixed bridge is basically a dental appliance that is used to replace one or several missing teeth. It bridges the space between either two adjacent natural teeth or implants. A traditional fixed bridge is made of a false tooth or teeth suspended between two crowns that the dental provider cements on the surrounding teeth. An implant bridge is attached to two or more implants that are submerged in the bone tissue. A bridge is sometimes referred to as a fixed partial denture.

Dental implants

Dental implants are commonly used to support a bridge when multiple teeth are missing. These are posts that are surgically placed into the patient’s jaw. The implants eventually fuse to the jawbone and act as a stable base for the bridge. One of the main advantages of implants is that they do not need support from adjacent teeth. Ideal candidates for implants should have good general health and sufficient bone to support an implant. This is important because surgery is required.

Implant bridge procedure

Implant bridges replace the support lost due to missing teeth. This means it is not necessary to drill the adjacent teeth. Moreover, an implant is not required for every lost tooth. Enough space, gum tissue, and underlying bone must be available for the dentist to place the implants.

Implants are inserted in strategic positions to replace the lost teeth. When the implants are stable and ready for loading, the dentist will attach the abutments to them. They will help connect the final bridge to the implants. Once an impression is made, the implant bridges will be fabricated and then retained in place using screws or cement.

Oral hygiene

The success of a bridge often depends on several factors including the foundation. It is critical for patients with bridges to maintain their oral health. While an implant bridge is not vulnerable to cavities, it can still develop complications if oral hygiene is not maintained. It is important to brush for two minutes, twice every day. Visiting the dentist regularly is also highly recommended.

Visit your dentist

An implant bridge attaches man-made teeth directly to the jaw or under the gum tissue. With proper care, your implant bridge can last for many years. It is vital to keep your remaining teeth healthy and strong and the implant restoration should be routinely evaluated. To find out if an implant bridge is the right treatment option for you, talk to your dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.