When all teeth are missing
or in such condition that they need to be replaced, a fixed
bridge anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution
Before dental implants, there were no fixed solution available
for people who lost all their teeth. Today, it is possible to
replace a full jaw with dental implants and a fixed bridge that
results in a permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.
· Lets you eat and function
like having natural teeth
· A solid, stable solution that will serve you for life
· Preserves your facial appearance and prevents bone loss
The treatment procedure
and number of visits is largely dependent on the specific conditions.
But all in all, 8-10 visits should be enough to have a fixed
bridge installed. Most patients report that they were much more
comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated.
COURSE
OF TREATMENT
INSTALLING THE
FIXED BRIDGE STEP-BY-STEP
The course of treatment
described here is one of several options available. Consult
your dentist to find out what the best solution is for you,
given your specific condition.
1. Before the
procedure
The dentist determines
what needs to be done and prepares both himself and the patient
for the coming treatment procedure.
2. Installing
the implants
The first step is installing
dental implants to replace the lost tooth roots. In this case,
five implants are used. Temporary teeth are attached that enable
you to eat and function like normal while waiting for the permanent
bridge to be installed.
3. Attaching
bridge
The final bridge is securely
installed on top of the implants. With a full jaw replacement
like this, it normally takes 2-3 visits to have the bridge completely
attached.
4. End result
Your new teeth should
be hard to tell from natural both for you and others. People
who have had traditional dentures before getting a fixed bridge
often describe this as an overwhelming and very positive experience.
An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture,
which is anchored on implants. The old fashioned denture has
many disadvantages and should be avoided if possible.
Removable,
implant anchored overdenture
A removable full denture
that is connected to either a ball or bar attachment, which
in turn is anchored on two or more implants in the front part
of the jaw.
The implants help keep
the denture in place and provide better function and comfort.
Cost is usually the reason why this solution is chosen over
a fixed bridge although the end result cant be compared.
Removable
full denture
A denture that is loosely
placed on top of the gum to cover the lost teeth. This alternative
has no real advantages except for its low price and easy installation.
The disadvantages are
many: discomfort in eating, poor esthetics, affected speech,
and sore gums from denture movement. Moreover, a full denture
placed in the upper jaw severely reduces the sense of taste.
