Implants and bridges are two different approaches to replacing missing teeth. Our dentists can help you decide which is right for your unique situation. A dental implant bridge is an ideal solution to replace missing teeth. It eliminates the need for a removable partial denture, while also providing biting and chewing support to help prevent premature aging in the surrounding teeth.

Dental implants are more permanent and provide a more natural feel when biting and chewing. They can also prevent bone deterioration, which can lead to a sunken appearance in the face.

Cost

It is less expensive than a single dental implant, and most dental insurance policies cover bridges. However, it is not a permanent replacement for missing teeth and can cause problems with nearby teeth, such as damage to the anchor teeth (the natural teeth that are used to support the bridge).

In addition, a bridge may increase the risk of infection from plaque buildup on the pontic tooth. Patients must clean their bridges more thoroughly, using a floss threader or small brush to get between the teeth and the pontic, and visiting their dentist twice a year for cleaning and checkups. In addition, patients with bridges must avoid certain foods that can damage the teeth supporting them. Moreover, implants are more expensive and require surgery, so they are not suitable for everyone.

Aesthetics

In addition to improving smile symmetry and facial aesthetics, dental implant bridges can also enhance overall oral health. They offer a healthier alternative to other tooth replacement options, such as removable dentures. Because they do not place stress on adjacent teeth, dental implant bridges preserve their health. This allows you to eat more and eliminates dietary restrictions associated with other tooth replacement solutions.

The natural-looking prosthetics are custom-made to blend in with your existing teeth, resulting in a seamless restoration that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and functional. Aesthetic considerations include tooth color, shape, alignment, and the color of the surrounding gums.

Once the implants are healed, we will attach abutments to each of them. These connect the implant with the rest of the bridge, completing the restoration. We will then schedule regular follow-up appointments and routine dental checkups to monitor your bridge and ensure that it is in good condition. These visits will also help to keep the underlying jawbone healthy and prevent bone loss.

Function

A dental implant bridge is a permanent tooth replacement option that’s custom-designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They’re anchored to dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone, and the process can take several weeks or even months for gum tissue to heal and the implants to fuse with the jawbone.

Bridges restore chewing and speaking functions, and they prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap created by missing teeth. They don’t require bone grafting or invasive surgery, and they typically cost less than implants. They can also be more appropriate for patients who don’t have the time to wait for implants to heal or who might not be able to tolerate the implant healing process. However, they put pressure on the surrounding teeth that are bonded to the bridge and can cause them to weaken or break.

Maintenance

While implant bridges are less maintenance-intensive than traditional dentures, they require regular cleaning and good oral hygiene. Patients with dental bridges should brush twice a day and use floss to remove bacteria from hard-to-reach places around the implants. In addition, they should avoid chewing hard or sticky foods to prevent damaging the implant and surrounding natural teeth.

Flossing and oral irrigation help keep the area around the implants clean and free of bacteria that can cause gum disease. At the time of installation, it is important that the patient demonstrate that he or she can comfortably and easily access the area under the bridge.

Visiting the dentist regularly for routine cleanings and checkups helps detect problems early, such as red or painful gums or changes in bite alignment. It also gives the dentist a chance to examine the abutments and implant crowns for damage or decay that may not be immediately visible to the patient.