Dental bridges have long been used to replace single or multiple missing teeth. However, dental implant technology, which has revolutionized the way in which teeth can be replaced, is now being combined with the design of conventional dental bridge in order to create a solution that is truly superior. Implant-supported dental bridges are now the preferred choice of many patients thanks to the benefits that they afford, and we are thrilled to be able to offer our patients a comprehensive range of dental restorations that include implant-supported bridges right here at our offices in Bronxville, NY.

What is dental implant technology?

Dental implant technology is an innovative new technique that is being utilized in devices designed to replace missing teeth. The process involves titanium posts being used to replicate the roots of natural teeth, which gives the restoration greater stability and strength than conventional solutions. This is because the titanium posts are inserted into holes drilled at pre-determined locations in the jaw bone. This damage to the jaw to place them causes the bone to heal back around each post, anchoring it permanently in place.

Dental implants can be used to support an individual missing tooth, several missing teeth (an implant-supported bridge) or an entire arch of missing teeth (an implant-supported denture).

How does an implant-supported bridgework?

An implant-supported bridge combines the design of a conventional bridge with dental implant technology. The bridge itself is created in the same way – custom-designed artificial teeth made from porcelain that is glazed to match your existing teeth. However, unlike a regular bridge which is secured onto the teeth neighboring the gap using crowns, the bridge is instead secured on implant posts – usually two – which act as anchors for the restoration.

What makes an implant-supported bridge better than a traditional dental bridge?

There are several distinct advantages to choosing implant-supported bridges over the traditional bridge design. These include:

- Greater stability of the restoration meaning no embarrassing slips.

- Reinforcement of the jaw bone, since the placement of implants, triggers the bone to remain strong and healthy to support the posts. This prevents the bone from deteriorating and the face from losing structure.

- Ability to eat whatever you want without needing to worry that your bridge is going to come loose.

- No pressure on any existing teeth, enabling them to be healthy and effective for longer.

- A dental restoration that both looks and feels just like regular teeth.

- Confidence in the appearance and function of your smile.

Am I a suitable candidate for an implant-supported bridge?

In order for dental implants to be a possibility, you will first need to have the quality and health of your jaw bone assessed. Dental implants are only successful if you have sufficient density of healthy bone in your jaw to heal around the posts and secure them in place. If your jaw bone is found to be unsuitable, you may be able to have a procedure known as a bone graft which increases the amount of healthy bone in your jaw, and then have implants once the graft has healed. Our dental team will talk to you about this possibility when you come for your consultation for your implant-supported bridge.

If you would like more information about implant-supported bridges, or if you are ready to schedule your consultation to see if you are a suitable candidate for this popular form of restorative dentistry, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our dentistry practice in Bronxville, NY today.