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Why Choose an Implant-Supported Bridge? Advantages and Process Explained
We tend to take our teeth for granted until we lose one or more of them. But once a tooth is lost, it quickly becomes apparent just how valuable our natural teeth are to us. Fortunately, modern dentistry has given us many options for replacing missing teeth. An implant-supported bridge can restore your smile even if you don’t have healthy natural teeth to support the bridge. Let’s explore the advantages of dental bridges while also outlining the process.
Implant-Supported Bridges: Your Solution for Smile Gaps
Unlike removable dentures or partials, an implant-supported bridge is a permanent solution when you want to fill the gaps in your smile and replace your missing teeth. An implant-supported bridge is secured in place by two dental implants, one on each side of the gap left by one or more missing teeth. With an implant-supported bridge, you regain your functionality and have increased stability.
Implant-Supported Bridges vs. Traditional Bridges
A traditional bridge is secured by two healthy natural teeth, and implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants. When you go with a traditional bridge, a portion of your natural tooth has to be filed down for the bridge to fit properly. This process can affect the health of neighboring teeth, which might lead to issues down the road.
Advantages of an Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge has many advantages over traditional bridges. These include:
- Long-lasting durability: With proper care, an implant-supported bridge can last decades. Traditional bridges often need to be replaced after 10-15 years.
- Prevents bone loss: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, which keeps the bone from deteriorating over time. Traditional bridges do not prevent bone loss and, in fact, may actually contribute to it.
- Stability and function are enhanced: An implant-supported bridge is secured by dental implants, so it doesn’t shift around or slip. A traditional bridge can feel less stable, especially as more time passes.
- Preservation of adjacent teeth: For a traditional bridge, the adjacent teeth have to be filed down a bit and used as anchors. This can lead to tooth decay in these teeth. Dental implants don’t have this issue.
- Natural appearance and feel: Implant-supported bridges very closely resemble the look and feel of natural teeth.
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The Implant-Supported Bridge Process Explained
Implant-supported bridges are made with two primary components: dental implants and the bridge of prosthetic teeth. To place your implants, your dentist puts titanium posts directly into your jaw in a surgical procedure. These posts need three to six months to heal. In a process called osseointegration, the titanium post fuses completely with the jawbone, becoming a part of the jaw. Then, they’re topped with an abutment and a porcelain crown. Dental implants function nearly identically to natural teeth. After the implant process is complete, a custom-designed bridge is attached to your implants to fill the space.
Your Choice for Implant-Supported Bridges in Aztec, NM
Bridge tooth replacement can give you the smile restoration you deserve, and Dr. James Durfey and the team at Aztec Family Dental Care in Aztec, New Mexico, are ready to help. Use our online form to request an appointment today, or call our office at (505) 390-1117 to schedule a consultation.
