Tooth loss is an oral health concern that should be taken seriously. Dr. Kevin Welinsky provides advanced solutions for his patients with missing teeth. Dental implants offer a highly effective and permanent solution for patients who have gaps in their smile. Sweet Tooth Dentistry can provide you with a custom-made implant-supported bridge in Towson, MD if you have multiple missing teeth. Unlike a traditional dental bridge, this type of dental restoration is self-sustaining and offers better stability and strength.
What is an Implant-Supported Bridge?
An implant supported bridge is a dental prosthesis that is designed to replace several consecutive missing teeth on an arch. The dentist will anchor the dental bridge to dental implants that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implant fixtures will fuse to the bone providing the most stable base for false teeth available today.
How Many Dental Implants are Needed to Support a Dental Bridge?
An implant-supported bridge will require at least two dental implants. However, the exact number of implants is determined the patient’s unique needs. Factors such as the location of the missing teeth and how many teeth are missing will help determine the number of teeth implants required. For example, patients with larger gaps may require three or more implant fixtures to anchor the dental bridge for optimal stability and support.
How is an Implant-Supported Bridge Better than a Traditional Dental Bridge?
An implant-supported bridge is simply more superior then a traditional dental bridge. The advantages include:
- Preservation of Natural Teeth: A traditional dental bridge will require the alteration of the adjacent healthy teeth. They must be reduced in size and serve as anchors for the bridge. An implant-supported bridge does not require the modification of any teeth. Your healthy remaining teeth will remain intact.
- Longevity: When properly cared for, an implant-supported bridge can last a lifetime. A traditional dental bridge will need to be replaced every 10 or so years.
- Enhanced Stability: Any dental restoration that is anchored to dental implants will be more stable.
- Preservation of Jawbone: The dental implants will also replace the missing teeth roots, providing stimulation for the jaw bone. This will help prevent bone loss and preserve the jawbone. A traditional bridge does not prevent bone loss.
Are Implant-Supported Bridges for Everyone?
The downside to implant-supported bridges is that not everyone will qualify for dental implants. Patients should have good oral health, sufficient bone density in the jaw, and no major underlying medical issues that could impede with the healing process. Patients who lack adequate bone tissue may need a bone graft to create a stable foundation to support the implant fixtures.
Patients who commit to receiving an implant-supported bridge must be committed to a strict oral hygiene routine. This includes daily brushing and flossing as well as regular dental check-ups. The success of dental implants relies on proper oral hygiene.
- Implant Dentistry Overview
- Dental Implants FAQs
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
- Full Mouth Dental Implants
- Implant-Supported Crown
Dr. Welinsky will examine your entire mouth to determine if dental implants are the best solution for your missing teeth. He can provide you with an implant supported bridge in Towson, MD if you have several missing teeth in a row and qualify for teeth implants.
To book your consultation, call our office at 410-449-7656. You can also request an appointment online by filling out the form on this page.