Replacing Several Teeth
What is an implant bridge?
Implant-supported bridges are similar to traditional bridges. Dental implants (screws) are inserted into prepared bony sockets in the jaw. The implants act as replacement roots for the missing teeth. A special attachment called the abutment is fitted to the top of each implant and forms the external connection to the replacement teeth (bridge).
Once an implant has been placed in the jaw, it needs to heal before the bridge can be added. During this healing – which can take between three and six months – the surface of the implant fuses with the surrounding bone, a process known as osseointegration. Once this process is finished, the implant(s) is stable enough to support the bridge.
When your new bridge has been prepared, our dentist will cement or screw it onto the abutments over the dental implants, check that it fits well and look good, and check that your upper and lower teeth work together comfortably when you bite. You will usually need to return for several review appointments to make sure that the implants are stable and functioning well, and that you are completely happy with the finished result.
Implant Bridges
How many implants will I need?
Depending on the number of teeth missing, 2-3 implants need to be placed to support a bridge with up to 4-5 crowns (false teeth). Conditions apply depending on your individual needs.
Will I be without teeth while waiting for the implants to heal?
You don’t need to be without teeth while waiting for the healing process after implant surgery. The options available are a removable temporary denture or a fixed temporary bridge. These options will be discussed with you before the implant procedure.
Implant Bridges
How long will the implant bridge last?
If you look after your implant bridge and practice good oral hygiene, an implant bridge can last up to 15 years or longer.
Advantages of an implant bridge:
• Dental implant bridges look and function like natural teeth.
• The implants placed will replace some of your tooth roots thus the jaw bone is better preserved. With a traditional bridge, some of the bone that previously surrounded the roots may deteriorate (reabsorb). Dental implants integrate with the jawbone thus preserving the bone and helping to keep it intact.
• An implant bridge is supported by the implants and not the adjacent natural teeth as in the case of traditional bridges. This provides more options for cases where there are several teeth missing and only a few natural teeth remaining.
• Gums and bone may recede around a traditional bridge and this can lead to a collapsed & unattractive smile. Since the implants help preserve the jaw bone, this will not happen with an implant bridge.
• An implant bridge is secure and fixed. This allows you to eat as normal whereas removeable dentures can move around the mouth limiting your ability to eat certain foods.
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A Perfect Fit
Werner Slabbert and Jon Dolding describe how a simple, accurate and stable full arch implant-supported prosthesis changed a patient’s life overnight
