Is There More Than One Kind of Implant-Supported Bridge?

Implant-supported bridges are nearly identical to traditional bridges in form; however, with dental implant-supported bridges, implant connectors are used as retainers instead of the patient’s crowned natural teeth. Just like its traditional counterpart, implant-supported bridges use crowns. The crowns are placed on connectors that have a similar shape to a natural tooth after it has been prepared for placing a crown.

Types of Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges can be fixed or removable. The removable option is frequently referred to as overdentures.

What Is the Difference Between a Fixed and a Removable Dental Bridge?

A fixed implant-supported bridge is permanently attached to the abutments of the dental implants, which means that this type of bridge cannot be removed without assistance from a dental professional.

A removable implant-supported dental bridge is preferred by some patients because the bridge can be removed regularly for cleaning purposes. In addition, a removable implant-supported dental bridge is less expensive than the fixed implant-supported bridge.

Preventing Bone Resorption

Once teeth are missing, unless they are replaced with dental implants, the bone begins resorbing (i.e., breaking down). It is this resorption process that causes an individual’s face to appear withdrawn/sunken in. The jawbone begins resorbing because it is no longer being stimulated by the natural roots of the teeth. However, when implant-supported dental bridges are used to replace the missing teeth, patients enjoy a fuller, less withdrawn, more youthful-looking appearance.

Both the fixed and removable dental implant bridges provide the support necessary to keep the lips and cheeks fuller.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Fixed Implant-Supported Bridge?

This type of bridge is ideal for patients who have recently lost all, or most of their teeth. Most of these patients will have a substantial amount of jawbone, which makes them an ideal candidate for a fixed implant-supported dental bridge.

Who Should Consider a Removable Implant-Supported Bridge?

Patients who have suffered a significant amount of bone loss are generally good candidates for the removable implant-supported bridge (aka overdenture). The overdenture not only restore an individual’s ability to chew food more efficiently, but they also provide support for the facial structures. This support can make an individual look younger.

To learn more about implant-supported dental bridges and how the Evanko Dental Group of Medina can help you attain the smile you have always desired, contact the office today at 330.725.6182. To request an appointment online, please click here.