An implant-supported bridge offers a stable and lasting method for replacing several missing teeth in a row. This dental solution provides a fixed restoration, meaning it is not removable by the patient. Its design aims to restore both the appearance and function of natural teeth. This approach serves as a reliable option for individuals seeking to regain their smile and chewing ability.
Understanding Implant Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge is a dental prosthesis secured by dental implants, distinguishing it from traditional bridges that rely on adjacent natural teeth for support. Rather than placing stress on natural teeth, the bridge is anchored directly into the jawbone, providing a secure and stable foundation for the replacement teeth.
This type of bridge differs from a single implant crown, which replaces one tooth, and from conventional bridges, which require the reshaping of neighboring natural teeth to serve as anchors. The stability offered by implants allows for improved chewing function and helps maintain the jawbone’s density.
Core Components
An implant-supported bridge is comprised of three main parts. The foundation consists of dental implants, small, screw-shaped posts typically made from biocompatible titanium. These posts are surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots.
Connecting the implants to the visible bridge prosthesis are components called abutments. These metal or ceramic connectors attach to the implants and extend above the gum line, providing the base for the final bridge.
The final component is the bridge prosthesis, a custom-made dental appliance containing the artificial teeth. Crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or a combination such as porcelain-fused-to-metal, it is designed to match the natural shade and appearance of existing teeth. The bridge is either cemented or screwed onto the abutments, completing the restoration.
The Placement Procedure
The process of receiving an implant-supported bridge begins with an initial consultation and thorough planning. The dental professional assesses oral health using X-rays and 3D scans to evaluate bone density and determine suitability for implants. A personalized treatment plan is then developed, outlining the steps and number of implants required.
Following planning, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, often under local anesthesia. A healing period, known as osseointegration, then follows, during which the jawbone fuses with the titanium implant posts. This process takes three to six months, varying based on individual healing and implant location.
Once osseointegration is complete, abutments are attached to the integrated implants, sometimes in a minor second procedure. Impressions are then taken to fabricate the custom bridge in a dental laboratory, ensuring a precise fit and natural appearance. Finally, the completed bridge is securely attached to the abutments, restoring both function and aesthetics to the smile.
Maintaining Your Implant Supported Bridge
Proper care is important for the longevity and success of an implant-supported bridge. Daily oral hygiene involves regular brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is important to floss daily, using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean beneath the bridge and around the implants. An oral irrigator, or water flosser, can assist in removing food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
Regular dental check-ups are important for professional cleanings and examinations. These visits allow the dental team to assess the bridge’s condition, monitor implant health, and remove any stubborn plaque or tartar. Professional cleanings are recommended every six months.
Dietary considerations contribute to the bridge’s maintenance. It is advisable to avoid excessively hard or sticky foods, such as ice or hard candies, as these can damage the bridge or underlying components. With diligent oral hygiene and consistent professional care, an implant-supported bridge can last for many years, often decades.