Dr. Trinkner and Dr. Keefer can replace multiple teeth using an implant-supported bridge in our Columbia dental office. Tooth loss can have a significant effect on your daily life and overall wellbeing. It can affect your self-confidence, speech and hinder the ability to consume certain foods. However, restoring your smile by taking steps to replace your lost teeth can have a positive impact on the quality of your life.
You can choose to not replace your lost teeth, but this is not a good idea since your health and well-being can suffer. Fortunately, implant-supported dental bridges are an effective and reliable way to replace missing or lost teeth. Dental implants support this type of dental bridge. The implants provide a stable base for the bridge, which helps it remain secure and in place for the rest of its life.
The implant-supported bridge also helps preserve the health of your surrounding teeth and bone. Additionally, it does not require any alterations to neighboring teeth like traditional bridges do. With regular dental care, these bridges can last up to 15 years or more.
For a row of up to 5 missing teeth, an implant-supported bridge is the best option for your health. Continue reading to learn more about this restorative treatment.
What is an Implant-supported Bridge?
An implant-supported bridge consists of two or more dental implants and a custom dental bridge. The custom bridge consists of dental crowns that will attach to the implants and pontics which are the replacement teeth.
To qualify for this type of bridge, our patient will need to have healthy gums and a healthy jawbone. This is because you will need to undergo oral surgery so that we can place the dental implants. We can help your bone loss with a bone grafting procedure so that you qualify.
After several months of healing time, the implants will fuse with the jaw bone and create a permanent bond for the bridge. After your mouth heals over the dental implants, your dentist will secure the bridge on top of them to complete your new smile.
The Benefits of an Implant-supported Bridge
The best choice to replace several missing teeth in a row is an implant-supported bridge. This is better than a removable partial denture and a fixed bridge for several reasons. An implant-supported bridge offers many benefits over traditional bridges including improved stability, better aesthetics, and increased comfort.
This type of restoration will not harm any of your remaining healthy teeth, or add extra pressure to help hold the restoration in place. With a fixed bridge, you have to use the adjacent teeth to secure it. The dentist must grind down the anchor teeth to accommodate the crowns. However, since the implant-supported bridge sits on implants, our dentist will not have to modify your natural teeth.
Implant-supported bridges will also replace your teeth at the root. Replacing the roots will help maintain the structural integrity of your jaw bone. Avoiding bone deterioration will help hold the natural shape of your face and prevent other teeth from becoming loose. In other words, you won’t have to worry about premature facial sagging!
Dental implants also provide a strong and secure base for any restorative dental work. This will allow you to eat any kind of food without restrictions, making it more reliable in the long run. Since the bridge is firmly in place, you will be able to use a greater chewing force than you would otherwise.
How many teeth can an implant-supported bridge replace?
An implant-supported bridge can replace anywhere from two to five teeth (sometimes more). However, the more teeth you are replacing with the bridge, the more dental implants you may need to support it.
The good news is that it’s not necessary to use one implant per missing tooth! A bridge requires at least two dental implants for support. Maximizing the number of teeth the bridge and implants will support will reduce the total cost of treatment significantly.
What is the cost of an implant-supported dental bridge?
The cost of an implant-supported dental bridge depends on several factors. Factors such as the number of dental implants that we need to place, the type of materials, and the procedure. Generally, dental insurance may cover part of the procedure, but not the total cost of treatment. Ask your insurance provider to see exactly what they can cover for you.
Is there any special care required for an implant-supported dental bridge?
While this type of bridge offers many benefits, it will require special care to ensure the longevity of the bridge. Proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist are essential to keep your implant-supported bridge in good condition. Additionally, floss under and around your implant-supported bridge to prevent issues such as gum disease. With the right maintenance, an implant-supported dental bridge can provide a lasting solution for missing teeth.
Are there alternatives to implant-supported bridges that provide similar results?
Yes, there are other alternatives that can provide similar results. These alternatives include traditional bridges, partial dentures, and single dental implants. Each of these options has its own advantages and drawbacks, so consult with our dentist to determine which option is best for you.
Schedule a Consult for an Implant-supported Bridge in Columbia, SC
Request a visit to our Columbia dental office for a implant-supported bridge consultation. You can request an appointment online or give Dr. Trinkner and Dr. Keefer a call at 803-400-8729. An implant-supported bridge can help you regain your oral health and confidence!
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