How Many Teeth Does an Implant Supported Bridge Have?
An implant-supported bridge is very similar to a traditional bridge. The primary difference is how they are secured. Instead of being supported by the two adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge attaches to small titanium posts that are surgically embedded in the jawbone. The number of posts placed depends on the size of the bridge.
An implant supported bridge replaces multiple teeth. One to eight implants can be places to support 2-14 bridged artificial teeth. Depending on the number of teeth that need to be replaced, enough implants will to be placed to support the teeth in the span. Usually, two implants can replace three to four teeth. Four to six implants can support an entire upper or lower set of teeth. This is called full mouth dental implants or All on 4.
Benefits of an Implant Supported Bridge
* It is a permanent restoration that stays in your mouth.
* Biting, chewing, eating, and speaking is very natural.
* Implants do not decay.
* Easy to clean with floss, toothbrush, and a water pick.
* Implants never have nerve problems or need root canals.
* The implant stimulates the jawbone ensuring extended bone density.
* Implants are much less likely to break than natural teeth.
Different Implant Bridge Designs
Simple implant supported bridges usually replace a span of three to four teeth with implants put into the jawbone at the far ends of the gap. Then the multiple tooth bridge is connected to the implants. Other designs include cantilever and front teeth implant bridges. There are many options.
* 3-4 Teeth Implant Bridge- It will be best for your dentist to place two implants on either side of the space. The implants can be place next to one another but this leaves one side of the bridge unsupported. A bridge with this unsupported area is called a cantilever.
* Cantilever Implant Bridges- Cantilever implant bridges are acceptable, as the unsupported length is less than half the overall length of the entire bridge.
Once the implants have healed, the bridge tray and teeth can be installed. Implant supported bridges cost less than individual implants because it requires fewer implants. A cantilever implant bridge might be necessary when there is not enough space to physically place multiple implants. There needs to be at least 1 mm of jawbone in between each implant. If possible, it is better to do individual implants and individual crowns. The more artificial root structure preserves gum and jawbone. Individual teeth will look natural and are much easier to clean. A cantilever bridge does cost less money and it may be a viable compromise.
Implant Supported Bridges vs. Traditional Dental Bridges
The most popular implant supported bridges are three and four teeth bridges that contain two implants and support spans of three to four artificial teeth. Implant supported bridges look like teeth, function like teeth and usually last decades. Implant supported bridges do not get decay, cavities, or need root canals. Since implants do not decay, implant supported bridges have a huge advantage over traditional bridges since the bridged teeth are more difficult to clean resulting in cavities and decay.