Replacing Multiple Teeth
If you are missing multiple teeth, they may be replaced with multiple single-tooth implant restorations or with an implant fixed partial denture (or bridge). Alternatively, this space may be replaced with a removable partial denture, or a conventional bridge using your natural teeth.
​What are the advantages of implant bridges?
Implant bridges replace the support lost as a result of missing teeth, avoid the need to drill or file down adjacent teeth, and do not require an implant for every missing tooth. Implants are placed in strategic positions based on factors such as bone quantity/quality, bite requirements, esthetic requirements, etc. When the implants are stable and ready for loading, abutments can be attached to the implants that will connect the final bridge (prosthesis) to the implants. An impression is made recording the contours of the abutments or the position of the implant tops. The implant bridge is then fabricated and retained in place using cement or screws.
An implant bridge is not susceptible to cavities but may develop complications if oral hygiene is not maintained. This implant restoration should be routinely evaluated – the time interval dependent upon the conditions of the remaining natural teeth and the implant bridge. Restorations using porcelain may be susceptible to a low incidence of porcelain fracture. Patients with large functional forces, including bruxism, may require stronger metal chewing surfaces.
Implant-assisted removable partial dentures (IRPD) utilize a few implants to secure a removable partial denture.
These key implants may eliminate unsightly clasps, reduce the display of metal parts on the RPD, and will increase the amount of support, stability and retention to the final restoration.