For a Healthier, More Secure Smile
A dental bridge is a standard solution for replacing missing teeth, providing a natural-looking replacement that is more stable than a partial denture. However, it doesn’t offer adequate protection against common tooth loss-related health problems. Traditional bridges do not keep the jaw strong and tend to have a shorter lifespan.
Dr. Jim Eggleston, our Turlock implant dentist, can enhance the longevity and stability of a bridge by supporting it with dental implants. By using implants to support a bridge, you can enjoy the benefits of both options and maintain optimal oral health.
What Are Implant-Supported Bridges?
Implant-supported bridges also known as fixed bridges are partial restorations customized to look like your natural teeth. Just like traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges are made to replace up to four missing adjacent teeth with false teeth called pontics. Unlike conventional bridges, implant-supported bridges don’t rely on dental crowns affixed to your adjacent healthy teeth for support. Instead, they’re held in place by titanium implant posts which are surgically inserted into your jawbone.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Affordable – Because implant-supported bridges don’t replace every missing tooth with a singular implant, they’re a more affordable option for most patients.
Jaw Bone Regeneration – The implants that support your bridge will help stimulate your jawbone, preventing loss of jawbone density (resorption) and encouraging it to regenerate.
Natural Looking – Your dental bridge will be customized to blend seamlessly with your genuine smile.
Long-Lasting – Fixed bridges last longer than traditional bridges and partial dentures.
Protects Your Healthy Teeth – Implant-supported bridges don’t require your healthy teeth to be filed down to support them. This helps keep your oral health in optimal condition.
Prevents Misalignment – Your bridge will hold your natural teeth in place, helping to prevent misalignment.
Qualifying For Implant-Supported Bridges
With the advancements in implant technology, qualifying for dental implants has never been easier. However, certain conditions should be met to ensure your implant placement is successful. You may qualify for a fixed bridge if any of the following apply to you:
- You’re missing no more than four adjacent teeth
- Your gum tissue and jawbone are dense enough
- You’re looking for a stable, long-lasting restoration
- You want to protect and improve your oral health
To learn more about qualifying for an implant-supported bridge, you can call our Turlock dental office by dialing 209-226-4963.
The Implant-Supported Bridges Process
Initial Consultation
Before you’re approved for smile restoration with an implant-supported bridge, we’ll have you undergo an initial consultation. Your initial consultation will consist of an exam to evaluate your oral health, a review of your medical history, and a discussion about your smile goals. Your consultation is an excellent time to ask questions about the procedure and to talk to your implant dentist about sedation options if you’re feeling nervous.
Designing Your Implant-Supported Bridges
Once you’ve been approved for implant placement, we’ll take images and impressions of your smile. These will be used as blueprints for your custom-made fixed bridge.
Preparation
To prepare your mouth for your new implants, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to the soft tissues around the future implant site. Once we’re sure you’re numb, your Turlock implant dentist will perform any necessary extractions. Then, he’ll make small incisions into the gums where the implants will be placed.
Implant Placement
Your implants will be placed into your jawbone via incisions. You’ll return to our Turlock dental office to have your restoration installed after osseointegration is complete and the implants have fully fused with your jawbone. This process usually takes at least three to six months.
Installing Your Implant-Supported Bridge
When you return to Eggleston Dental Care, we’ll show you your new bridge to make sure it’s to your liking. If you approve, your Turlock implant dentist will affix the bridge to your implants using connector pieces called abutments. Once the restoration is properly affixed, you’ll be ready to start enjoying your new smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do implant-supported bridges cost?
The exact cost of an implant-supported bridge will vary from person to person. Common factors that influence cost include how many teeth need to be replaced, the materials used, and your insurance coverage. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider beforehand to ask them which costs they can cover.
How long do implant-supported bridges last?
Implant-supported bridges last ten to twenty years, and the implants themselves can last twenty years to a lifetime. However, getting the most out of your implant-supported bridges will depend on at-home and in-office care. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and visit your implant dentist for regular exams at least once every six months.
Are implant-supported dental bridges removable?
Implant-supported dental bridges are permanently secured to the fixtures in your jawbone. This will help the restoration stay securely in your mouth, making for easy maintenance. Simply brush and floss regularly to maintain your new smile.
How long does the treatment for an implant-supported bridge take?
The length of the treatment varies depending on the individual case, but typically it takes several months from start to finish. It usually requires multiple appointments with your implant dentist, including a consultation, the surgical placement of the implant, and the placement of the final restoration. Your implant dentist will give you a more accurate breakdown of time during your consultation.
Call Your Turlock Implant Dentist For A Stable, Healthy Smile
If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge may be the answer to helping you achieve a fully restored smile. Your local implant dentist and our skilled dental team provide fixed bridges to California patients in Turlock and surrounding areas such as Keyes, Denair, and Hatch, CA.
For a smile that’s stable, affordable, and supports your overall health, contact Eggleston Dental Care by dialing 209-226-4963. You can also fill out the online contact form below and one of our friendly team members will get back to you shortly.