DOUBLE TOOTH IMPLANT

Double Tooth Implant

If you need more than one but not all teeth replaced, one option is an implant-supported bridge. Implant-supported bridges can help boost confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak.

An implant-supported bridge is attached to implants-or metal screws-that are placed into the jawbone to form an artificial “root.” Over two to six months, the bone will grow around the screw to secure it in the jawbone. During this time, you can get a temporary tooth replacement to wear over the areas that are healing.

After the implant is secure, a piece called an abutment will be screwed onto the post above the gums. This piece is the foundation onto which the implant-supported bridge will be attached.

Often, patients may need to have a procedure that uncovers the implants so extensions can be attached. It will take a couple of weeks for your gums to heal after this procedure. There are, however, some one-stage implant systems that do not involve this additional procedure. One-stage implant systems use an implant screw that already has an extension piece attached. Your dental health care provider can provide guidance on which option is best for you.

Finally, your dentist will place the bridges onto the abutments/extensions.

Advantages of Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges have several advantages over dentures or other tooth-replacement options. These advantages include:

• They look and function like your natural teeth and are comfortable, leading to increased confidence in your appearance
• They don’t need support from natural teeth the way fixed bridges or partial dentures do.
• They will replace some of your tooth roots, which will better preserve your bone. A regular bridge or denture can allow the bone to begin to deteriorate, which can cause several issues, such as gum and bone receding around the bridge or denture, or bacteria causing tooth decay in the teeth that support the traditional bridge.
• They won’t move around in your mouth the way partial dentures can.
• They will generally last longer, be more durable, and be more stable.
• They allow you to eat what you want without restrictions you may have with dentures.
• They provide increased ease in speaking
• They are more convenient and easier to care for-implant care is the same as how you would care for your natural teeth

There are many options to replace missing teeth and deciding which option to pursue relies on many factors that are individual to you. It is important to have a detailed discussion about all options with your dental health care professionals. They can help you understand the full range of benefits and drawbacks of each possible solution for your specific situation and help make sure you choose the right option for you.

Should you and your dental health care provider agree that implant-supported bridges are the right option for you, you can be confident that your new teeth will look good, function well, and be a durable, long-term solution for your new smile.

Dental Implant Team