Restorative dentistry is a dental specialty that focuses on restoring broken, damaged, or otherwise missing teeth. Lakeland Family Dentistry in Flowood, Mississippi, is proud to offer one type of restoration – the implant-supported bridge. This procedure involves placing small titanium posts directly into your jawbone for the bridge to rest on. When completed, an implant-supported bridge will look exactly like a standard set of teeth but has the added advantage of being amazingly strong and stable. If you are looking for a more secure option than ordinary dentures, then a combination of solid implants with a high-strength bridge is what you need.
Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Henry, Dr. Greer or Dr. Carlton so they can show you more about implant-supported bridges and what they can do for you.
What is an Implant-Supported Bridge?
Missing teeth can lead to significant difficulties in everyday activities such as eating and speaking. They can also affect one’s self-esteem, leading to social anxiety and diminished quality of life. Implant-supported bridges restore your confidence, boost oral health, and rejuvenate your smile.
An implant-supported bridge is a dental device designed to replace missing teeth. This restoration type looks and functions like natural teeth, enhancing your smile’s aesthetic and functional aspects. Implant-supported bridges are called so because they are anchored to dental implants, surgically placed root-like structures that act as an anchor for the bridge.
What are the Benefits of Implant-Supported Bridges?
Implant-supported bridges can offer several benefits over traditional bridges or dentures. Here are some notable advantages of implant-supported bridges:
- Enhanced Comfort: Unlike dentures, implant-supported bridges do not press on the gums or lead to sore spots in the mouth. They are securely anchored in place, providing a stable and comfortable bite.
- Durability: Implant-supported bridges are made of high-quality materials and can last many years with proper care. They are also more resistant to wear and tear than traditional bridges.
- Improved Aesthetics: Implant-supported bridges can look like natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your existing teeth and complementing your facial features.
- Improved Oral Health: Implant-supported bridges prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur when teeth are not replaced. They also make it easier to clean between teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.
How is an Implant-Supported Bridge Placed?
The placement of an implant-supported bridge is a multi-step process that involves several stages. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will examine your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your goals and preferences to determine if an implant-supported bridge is right for you.
- Implant Placement: If you are a good candidate for the procedure, your dentist will place the implant(s) in your jawbone. The implants will gradually fuse with the bone over several months, providing a stable foundation for the bridge.
- Abutment Placement: The abutments or connectors are attached once the implants have fused. These structures protrude through the gum tissue and serve as anchor points for the bridge.
- Bridge Fabrication: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and use them to fabricate a custom bridge that fits perfectly in your mouth.
- Bridge Placement: After the bridge is fabricated, it is securely attached to the abutments, completing the restoration.
Implant-Supported Bridges in Flowood
If you are struggling with such missing or unhealthy teeth and looking for an effective and long-lasting solution, an implant-supported bridge might solve your dental problems. At Lakeland Family Dentistry, we specialize in implant dentistry and offer a range of treatments to restore your smile and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Henry, Dr. Greer or Dr. Carlton. We can’t wait to help you understand this fantastic restorative solution and how it can help you.