ALL TEETH MISSING
Benefits of a fixed bridge on implants
When all
teeth are missing or in such condition that they need to be replaced, a
fixed bridge anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution
Before dental implants, there were no fixed solution available for
people who lost all their teeth. Today, it is possible to replace a
full jaw with dental implants and a fixed bridge that results in a
permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.
- Lets you eat and function like having natural teeth
- A solid, stable solution that will serve you for life
- Preserves your facial appearance and prevents bone loss
Treatment:
The treatment procedure and number of
visits is largely dependent on the specific conditions. But all in all,
8-10 visits should be enough to have a fixed bridge installed. Most
patients report that they were much more comfortable following the
procedure than they had anticipated.
COURSE OF TREATMENT
INSTALLING THE FIXED BRIDGE STEP-BY-STEP
The course of treatment described here is one of several options
available. Consult your dentist to find out what the best solution is
for you, given your specific condition.
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1: Before the procedure
The dentist determines what needs to be done and prepares both himself and the patient for the coming treatment procedure. |
2: Installing the implants
The
first step is installing dental implants to replace the lost tooth
roots. In this case, five implants are used. Temporary teeth are
attached that enable you to eat and function like normal while waiting
for the permanent bridge to be installed. |
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3: Attaching the bridge
The
final bridge is securely installed on top of the implants. With a full
jaw replacement like this, it normally takes 2-3 visits to have the
bridge completely attached. |
4: End result
Your new
teeth should be hard to tell from natural both for you and others.
People who have had traditional dentures before getting a fixed bridge
often describe this as an overwhelming and very positive experience. |
ALTERNATIVES TO A FIXED BRIDGE
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An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which
is anchored on implants. The old fashioned denture has many
disadvantages and should be avoided if possible. |
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Removable, implant anchored overdenture
A
removable full denture that is connected to either a ball or bar
attachment, which in turn is anchored on two or more implants in the
front part of the jaw.
The implants help keep the denture in
place and provide better function and comfort. Cost is usually the
reason why this solution is chosen over a fixed bridge although the
end result cant be compared. |
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Removable full denture
A denture that is
loosely placed on top of the gum to cover the lost teeth. This
alternative has no real advantages except for its low price and easy
installation.
The disadvantages are many: discomfort in
eating, poor esthetics, affected speech, and sore gums from denture
movement. Moreover, a full denture placed in the upper jaw severely
reduces the sense of taste. |
