Missing or decayed teeth must be replaced to maintain your mouth’s long-term health. In addition to leaving a noticeable gap in your mouth, a missing tooth can cause other issues. Your smile’s alignment and even the looks of your face can change due to tooth loss as your remaining teeth shift around the gap.
The capacity to chew wholesome foods can be impacted by tooth loss. Removable partial dentures and other tooth replacement methods aren’t as secure as Implant Supported Bridges. Thanks to an implant bridge, you can eat whatever you want, which can restore most of your chewing function.
What Is An Implant-Supported Bridge?
While most issues associated with tooth loss can be avoided with a standard dental bridge, an implant-supported bridge has significant benefits. Traditional bridges rely on the support of neighboring teeth. Before applying dental cement to attach the bridge, these healthy teeth must be altered. Instead of relying on healthy teeth being ground down to hold the bridge, implants can be used.
How Does It Work?
The term “bridge” refers to a dental prosthesis that attaches to the jaw on either end and replaces one or more teeth. In doing this, the denture is secured so that it does not move as the patient speaks or chews. The teeth on either side of the gap act as anchors for conventional dental bridges, which are attached to the jaw. These are called “abutment teeth” and are surrounded by crowns with the dental prosthetic sandwiched in the middle.
Although removable partial dentures, which some patients may find painful or unstable, are an alternative to conventional dental bridges, the latter nevertheless have significant drawbacks. Because they need healthy teeth on each side of the gap to be reshaped to insert the crowns attached to the dental bridge, they are more expensive. The bridge and the natural teeth it is fastened may also be under stress from chewing force and general wear.
Implant-Supported Bridge: Procedure
1. Consultation
You can arrange a consultation to see whether dental implants are appropriate for you if these facts have you thinking about getting them. During a consultation, your denturist will look inside your mouth, take X-rays, and possibly even make a mold. In addition, a dentist in Lubbock may be contacted if you need a tooth extracted or to check your bone density.
2. First Tooth Implant Surgery
When the time comes for your operation, your dental implant surgeon will place the implant in your jawbone. You could install two or more implants at different locations around the jaw, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced. For every missing tooth, one implant is typically added.
3. Second Implant Surgery and Crown Installation
After the implant has healed and joined with your jaw, abutments will be positioned. A temporary crown will be placed on you. Return for a permanent crown once your gums have healed.
Implant-Supported Bridges In Lubbock
If dental implants are something you’re considering obtaining, you might be eligible for an implant-supported bridge in Lubbock. Your Lubbock dentist can advise you on whether you qualify for the procedure and how this restorative option can help restore your smile. With an implant-supported bridge, lost teeth can be replaced safely. Make an appointment today with a Lubbock dentist to learn more about implant-supported bridges.