Implant Bridges

Dental bridges have long been a part of prosthodontic dentistry, and have helped countless patients recover from tooth loss and regain their confidence. When coupled with dental implants, a dental bridge offers the additional benefits of strengthening your bite and preserving the integrity of your jawbone, which reduces your risks of experiencing further tooth loss later in life. If you’ve lost two or more teeth that are adjacent to each other, then a dental bridge may be the best way to restore your smile, and dental implants may be the best option for supporting your prosthesis.

Benefits of Implant Bridges

After losing one or more adjacent teeth, a dental bridge closes the gap in your smile with lifelike replacements (known as pontics). A traditional bridge is designed to rest on the healthy teeth next to the gap, which are modified so that the bridge can be bonded to them for support. By contrast, an implant bridge relies on the support of dental implant posts, which are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth once rested. As replacements for lost teeth roots, implant posts can offer improved support for your dental bridge while helping you avoid the need to alter your remaining healthy tooth structure.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Most patients who’ve lost teeth can qualify for dental implant placement, though your dentist will first ensure that you’re a good candidate by performing a thorough examination. For the best results, your dentist will ensure that your jawbone is strong and healthy enough to support the implant posts, and that you do not exhibit gum disease, tooth decay, or other issues that could compromise the success of your treatment. If you already have a dental bridge, then you may benefit from upgrading it to a dental implant-supported restoration at the recommendation of your primary dentist.