Implant Supported Bridges Louisville, KY & New Albany, IN
With a traditional dental bridge, the replacement teeth are usually fused to two dental crowns, one each side of the gap, and then these crowns are glued to those two adjoining healthy teeth to support the bridge in place. An implant supported bridge restoration does not need these two neighboring teeth for support. The artificial crowns are instead mounted on top of a dental implant. The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone in the gap. If there is not enough jawbone density to support the implant, the jawbone can be strengthened with a bone grafting procedure before the implant procedure. The bridge’s crowns are then attached to an abutment or extension, which serves as a small connector that links the bridge to the implant.
Candidate for Implant Supported Bridge?
Most people can qualify to have a single dental implant at PerioImplant Associates. Because an implant-supported bridge often requires a second implant, we will want to ensure that your jaw is strong enough and that there is adequate bone density. We will perform an oral exam and capture digital X-rays before we consider the restoration.
Also, the implant supported bridge will need consistent oral hygiene. An implant supported bridge will be a permanent prosthetic that you must clean just like your natural teeth. By not being attached to the two neighboring teeth, you can floss normally every day, and the artificial crowns will need to be brushed as well. Regular checkups and exams every six months are strongly encouraged as well.
The Cost of Your Implant Supported Bridge
The cost of your implant supported bridge restoration will vary depending on your individual situation and your personal treatment plan. We will discuss with you the cost of your implant supported bridge treatment and each of your available payment options before we begin, so that you know you are making the best choice for your situation.
Benefits of Implant Supported Bridges
Some of the benefits of replacing missing teeth with dental implants include:
- Improved oral health – With the pressure stimulation from the implant post, your dental implants will help you maintain the integrity of your gum tissue volume and your jawbone density, which means your smile will be healthy and functional for years to come.
- No hassle – You will not encounter any changes in your smile functions or how you care for your teeth. You can brush and floss as usual, enjoy your favorite foods, and talk and smile with complete confidence.
- Long lasting – After placement, your dental implant has the potential to last a lifetime. This is considerably longer than traditional bridges and dentures, which often need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years.
Implant supported bridges does not require PerioImplant Associates to alter your natural teeth. The two adjoining teeth will not need to undergo any prep work to support artificial crowns. The dental implants will support your bridge securely so that it feels and functions like your natural teeth. Dental implants also perform as an artificial tooth root, which stimulate the jaw with constant pressure, to maintain density and prevent jawbone atrophy. The life expectancy of an implant supported bridge will be far greater than a traditional bridge. Since we are not placing crowns on the two natural adjoining teeth the restoration looks even more natural.
Contact Our Practice Today
Our goal is to get you back to smiling and chewing with confidence. With our qualified staff and compassionate team, we will listen to your questions and desires to find the best solution for your dental health.
The Implant Supported Bridge Procedure
An implant-supported bridge will require several steps, which usually can span about six to nine months. After our initial evaluation has confirmed there is the necessary bone density, we will surgically place the dental implants into the jawbone in the area of tooth loss. After this surgery, the jawbone needs sufficient time to grow and fuse with the dental implants in a process called osseointegration.
After the osseointegration is completed, the second step of the procedure is scheduled. During this second treatment we will attach abutments, or extensions, to the implants, to reach the gum surface. After this step, the gums will again need about two weeks to heal.
The last step of your implant supported bridge restoration at PerioImplant Associates involves the actual placement of your custom designed bridge to the implant extensions. A special dental compound is used to bond your dental bridge, holding the artificial crowns, to the abutment posts. This compound secures your new dental bridge, so it becomes a natural part of your smile.
With your continued preventative oral hygiene care at-home combined with your regular dental checkups every six months, your implant supported bridge will last for decades. Your smile will be natural, you will have no stability issues with biting, chewing, speaking, and talking, and the artificial root of the implant maintains the natural health of your jawbone so you will not experience any sagging with your facial structure.
Our Specialists Tell Our Story Best
Ramsey Burton, DMD
Dr. Ramsey Burton is originally from Nashville, TN. He received both his undergraduate and doctorate degrees from the University of Louisville. Following dental school, he completed periodontal specialty training at the University of Kentucky.
Courtney Shearer, DMD, MS
Dr. Courtney Shearer was born and raised in Louisville, KY. She attended Washington and Lee University for her undergraduate degree. She then attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry where she received her Doctorate in Dentistry.
Jodie Lusby, DMD, MSD
Dr. Jodie Lusby is a Board Certified Periodontist and grew up in Florence, KY. He attended the University of Kentucky where he received his biology degree and graduated Magna Cum Laude. He then attended the Louisville School of Dentistry.
A Warm and Caring Welcome to Our Practice
Our entire team at PerioImplant Associates focuses on one primary goal, and that is to serve you. It is often natural for patients to be apprehensive or anxious about visiting a general dentist, or even a dental specialist such as a periodontist. Understanding that, our team will always take our time in explaining the benefits of your procedure, which is being proposed for your dental health. Both offices, Louisville, KY, and New Albany, IN, are professionally trained to address your concerns and issues. We will share the aspects of your periodontal treatment, introduce our staff, and explain any office policies of interest. Call us today about an evaluation for an implant supported bridge procedure for you. Each of us will enjoy greeting you with a smile and send you home with your healthy smile that you will be eager to share.