Dental Implant Bridge

A Dental Implant Bridge Is a Good Option for Replacing
a Lost or Damaged Tooth

Filling in the gaps dental implant bridge can be used to replace a single missing tooth or several teeth. The necessary procedure depends on the number of teeth being replaced, the location of the missing teeth and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
In addition, the health and strength of the jawbone must be considered, as drilling into the bone is necessary for actual implants. In some cases, the bridges are simply attached to existing teeth.

When implants are necessary, the new "root" will be constructed of titanium, in the form of a small screw. The screw serves as an anchor for a natural looking false tooth composed of porcelain.

Prior to the procedure, numerous x-rays will be taken to determine the shape and size of the bones, as well as the location of the sinuses and the alveolar nerve. A CT scan or 3-D imaging may be ordered. When a number of teeth are missing, a stint may need to be inserted to show the surgeon exactly where the drilling needs to be done.

After the titanium screws are implanted, some amount of time will elapse before the permanent false tooth can be attached. The time allows the bone to grow around and onto the surface of the implant.

The waiting period to complete the implant bridge should not be rushed, but the amount of time needed does vary from one individual to the next and even from one practitioner to another. Bone growth is slower in some individuals than it is in others, depending on their general state of health and their age.

The prices for this kind of procedure vary from one practitioner to the other and from one location to another. The general cost of living in an area affects the amount charged for the procedures. A person that lives in an area with a lower cost of living can expect to pay less than someone living in a major metropolis like the DC-metro area.

A dental implant bridge may last a lifetime. So, most people consider it worth the cost. The success rate is around 95%, as long as there is enough bone to work with and oral hygiene is good.

When failure does occur, the most common cause is that the bone fails to integrate with the titanium screw. A titanium alloy of Grade 5 has become increasingly popular for the procedures, because of the higher integration success rate.

If you are considering a dental implant bridge, contact a specialist in cosmetic dentistry or consult your current dentist for a recommendation.

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