If missing teeth prevent eating favorite foods or take away from self-confidence, implant bridges might be the perfect solution.
A bridge is a fixed partial denture used to replace a missing tooth by joining permanently to adjacent teeth. An implant bridge is similar, but it is supported by implants instead of by natural teeth.
Often, one implant is placed in the jawbone for each missing tooth and the crowns are connected to each other to form one piece. This implant-supported crown is much easier to keep clean.
A comfortable, effective bridge which can either be removable or fixed, fits discreetly over implants allowing for maximum support.
Confidence in speaking, smiling and eating is restored and maintained with the comfort and aesthetically-pleasing look of an implant bridge. While a repaired smile will boost self-esteem, there are other important advantages of an implant bridge.
A dental implant bridge can also:
- maintain the shape of the face
- distribute the forces in the bite properly by replacing missing teeth
- prevent the remaining teeth from drifting out of position
For current denture wearers, it might be worth considering the switch to an implant bridge. Life can significantly improve, especially if a patient finds dentures to be inconvenient. Messy adhesives and the nightly removal and cleaning would be eliminated.
With proper care and oral habits, implant bridges can last anywhere from five to 15 years, and in some cases even longer. In fact, it is common for a bridge to easily surpass a 10-year life span with regular checkups and good oral care.