Implant supported bridges Implant-supported bridges serve as a long-lasting remedy for replacing multiple missing teeth. This treatment option is employed when several teeth are absent simultaneously or when an inadequate number of healthy teeth exist to hold a conventional dental bridge. In the case of implant-supported restorations, a personalized bridge is securely affixed to dental implants that are surgically positioned within the jawbone. This procedure ensures a stable and durable foundation for the bridge, enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our dentist at Jason Widner DMD Family Dentistry can place the implant-supported bridge in your mouth successfully.Who Is a Candidate for an Implant-Supported Bridge?For you to be a candidate for implant-supported bridges, you must have the following: Suffucient JawboneSimilar to conventional dental implants, the successful placement of an implant-supported bridge requires an adequate amount of bone in the jaw to provide healthy support. Your dentist may recommend a bone graft if your jaw lacks sufficient bone to support the dental implants. While this additional step may lengthen the overall procedure time, it significantly enhances the prospects of achieving successful outcomes with your dental implants. Good Oral HealthIt is essential to maintain good oral health to be eligible for implant-supported bridges. People with gum disease or other oral health conditions must be thoroughly treated and resolved before they are considered good candidates for this procedure. Ensuring optimal oral health is crucial to maximizing the chances of a successful outcome for implant-supported bridges. Missing Natural ToothYou must have at least one consecutive missing natural tooth to be a suitable candidate for an implant-supported bridge. This allows your dentist to strategically insert the implants and subsequently create a bridge that can be attached without impacting the surrounding teeth. In meeting this criterion, you can benefit from the advantages of implant-supported bridges while preserving the integrity of neighboring teeth. Implant-Supported Bridges ProcedureBefore the implant-supported bridge procedure, your dentist will initiate an oral examination and carefully assess your medical and dental records. X-ray images of your gums and teeth will also be taken to understand your dental condition comprehensively. These scans evaluate the condition of your teeth, identify any potential impact on nerves or sinuses in the vicinity, and determine the adequacy of bone growth in your jaw for supporting the implants. This thorough assessment lets your dentist make informed decisions and plan the procedure effectively. The implants are carefully inserted inside the jaw in the initial surgical procedure, conducted by a periodontist or oral surgeon. They are then covered with gum tissue to facilitate proper healing and ensure accurate positioning. Your gums undergo a healing process for three to six months, and the implants naturally fuse with your jawbone. Following this healing period, a dentist will utilize an x-ray to evaluate the extent of bone growth and assess the successful integration of the implants. If the healing progresses as anticipated, a second surgical procedure is performed to expose the implants, preparing them for the subsequent stages of the treatment. After the second surgical procedure, the attachment of the bridge is not immediate. Instead, a specialized healing cap resembling a collar is placed atop the exposed implants. This healing cap promotes proper healing of the gum tissue surrounding the abutments and screws. Providing support and guidance during the healing process facilitates the ideal integration of the implants before the bridge is ultimately attached. During your subsequent visit, a temporary bridge will replace the cap. This temporary bridge is worn for one to two months, allowing ample time for the implants to stabilize further. The dentist will affix the permanent porcelain bridge after this healing period, ensuring a secure fit. Any necessary adjustments will be made to guarantee optimal functionality and aesthetics. Do you have missing teeth? Our dentist at Jason Widner DMD Family Dentistry can install implant-supported bridges to bring your smile back. Call us today at 425-868-0123 to book an appointment. |
 |
