Dental Implants are revolutionizing modern dentistry, and helping patients with missing teeth live full lives. Dental Implants are fully functional replacement teeth which are anchored into the jaw. A Dental Implant begins with an anchor, usually a titanium screw, which is inserted through the gumline into jaw bone. These tissues grow and bind with the anchor, allowing replacement teeth, called restorations, to be attached ton the jaw itself. This process is known as osseointegration, and promotes jaw health.
The artificial teeth in an implant supported bridge are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, zirconia, and composite resin. Porcelain is the most common material used for artificial teeth, as it is very strong and durable. Zirconia is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular, as it is even stronger and more durable than porcelain. Composite resin is a less expensive material that is sometimes used for artificial teeth, but it is not as strong or durable as porcelain or zirconia.
The abutment is the part of the bridge that connects the artificial teeth to the dental implants. The abutment is usually made from titanium, as it is a strong and biocompatible material.
The bridge is the part of the restoration that holds the artificial teeth in place. The bridge is usually made from a strong material, such as acrylic or metal. Bridges can encompass two teeth, and with additional anchors entire rows can be replaced.
Benefits of Implant Supported Bridges
There are many benefits to using implant supported bridges to replace missing teeth. Some of the benefits include:
- Natural look: Implant supported bridges look and function like natural teeth. They can help to improve the patient's smile, speech, and chewing ability.
- Comfortable: Implant supported bridges are very comfortable to wear. They do not require any shaving of adjacent teeth, and they do not interfere with the patient's bite or chewing.
- Long lasting: Implant supported bridges can last for many years with proper care.
- Improved oral health: Implant supported bridges can help to improve oral health by preventing bone loss and gum disease.
Risks of Implant Supported Bridges
As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with implant supported bridges. Some of the risks include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the implant site. This risk is very low, but it is important to follow the dentist's instructions carefully to reduce the risk of infection.
- Bone loss: There is a risk of bone loss around the implants. This risk is also very low, but it is important to see the dentist for regular checkups to monitor the patient's bone health.
- Nerve damage: There is a very small risk of nerve damage during the implant placement procedure. This risk is usually temporary, but it can be permanent in rare cases.
- Cost: Implant supported bridges are more expensive than traditional bridges or dentures.
Cost of Implant Supported Bridges
The cost of implant supported bridges varies depending on the number of missing teeth, the location of the missing teeth, and the type of bridge you choose. In general, implant supported bridges are more expensive than traditional bridges or dentures. However, the cost of implant supported bridges is often offset by the fact that they are a permanent solution and do not require any further treatment.