A dental bridge is an appliance made from two or more dental crowns that are joined together to replace missing teeth. Traditional bridges are supported by adjacent teeth, whereas implant supported bridges are anchored using dental implants.
Dental implants are placed into the jawbone at the site of missing teeth and may be used as support for a bridge. Once the implants have integrated with the surrounding bone, a custom-made bridge can be attached.
Implant supported bridges are typically used when replacing multiple missing teeth. A dental practitioner will assess your individual situation to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
What are the Reasons for Implant Bridges?
Implant supported bridges may be considered for patients with multiple missing teeth.
Potential considerations may include:
- Adjacent teeth may not require preparation in some cases
- Ability to replace multiple teeth using fewer implants
- Distribution of biting forces across the bridge structure
Suitability and outcomes vary between patients and should be discussed during a consultation.
How Do Implant Supported Bridges Work?
Implant supported bridges are often used when multiple teeth are missing. In some cases, several teeth may be replaced using fewer implants, however this will depend on individual clinical factors.
The implant supported bridge typically consists of three components:
- The implant – usually made from titanium and placed into the jawbone
- The abutment – connects the implant to the bridge
- The restoration – the bridge that replaces the missing teeth
A dental practitioner will assess your oral health and determine the most suitable treatment approach.
How Long Does Implant Bridge Treatment Take?
Healing following dental implant treatment can take several months, often around 3–6 months depending on individual circumstances.
If additional procedures such as bone grafting are required, the overall treatment time may be extended to allow for healing before implant placement.
Contact Oasis Dental Studio
If you would like to arrange a consultation, you can contact one of our practices: