Traditional vs. Implant-supported Dental Bridges
Tooth loss can make daily functions difficult and painful. Dental bridges fill in the gap that is left by missing teeth. This prosthetic is an effective tooth replacement treatment that has been used in dentistry for decades. Indeed, bridges restore your form, function, dental health, and appearance. This has a positive impact on your bite, ability to speak, and chew comfortably.
At Tijuana Bariatrics, we are proud to offer traditional and implant-supported dental bridges at our Tijuana, Mexico practice. Both options offer many practical and aesthetic benefits.
Traditional Dental Bridges
These are also known as fixed dental bridges. The prosthetic is made of one to three custom crafted teeth, called pontics, which will blend in with your existing teeth to create a beautiful smile.
The bridge is connected to two dental crowns on each side of the replacement teeth. These natural teeth must be healthy enough to support the bridge. Once attached, the dental bridge will fill the gaps in the smile.
A dental bridge can also:
- Prevent teeth from shifting out of alignment
- Resolve bite problems
- Offer a natural look and appearance
- Provide strength and durability
- Restore all dental function
- Improve appearance and aesthetics
- Last 10 years or longer
The one disadvantage of traditional dental bridges is the use of healthy natural teeth to support the bridge. For the bridge to fit correctly and comfortably, the natural teeth must be filed down to accommodate the crowns that anchor the bridge. The enamel that is removed will not grow back. So, if another type of bridge is chosen later, the tooth will always need to be protected with a crown.
Ideal Candidates for Traditional Dental Bridges
Good candidates include those who are missing one to three consecutive teeth. The adjacent teeth must also be strong and healthy enough to support the crowns.
Individuals considering a dental bridge must be in reasonably good oral and overall health. Therefore, all periodontal issues must be treated before having the bridge placed.
Implant-supported Bridges
This type of bridge does not need the natural teeth for support. Dental implants are used to support the bridge; these tiny titanium posts are surgically embedded into the jawbone. These posts act as artificial tooth roots that permanently fuse with the jaw in approximately three to six months.
Once healed and fused into the jaw, it forms a secure base for the bridge. Implant-supported bridges provide the same benefits as their traditional counterparts.
These implant-based restorations can also:
- Halt receding gums and bone deterioration
- Restore the ability to chew, bite, speak, and smile
- Anchor firmly with the mouth
- Last decades and possibly a lifetime
Ideal Candidates for Implant-supported Bridges
The best candidates are those who are missing teeth yet have the bone structure and healthy gum tissue to support the implant posts.
Bone grafting and gum augmentation must be performed in cases where the patient does not have sufficient bone and gum tissue.
Patients should understand that this is not a quick process. Healing times can take months before the dental bridge can be placed.
Contact Us Today
Which type of bridge is right for you: a traditional bridge or an implant-supported bridge? Schedule a consultation today to determine the best solution for your missing teeth. You can contact us online or call us at 877-613-2187.
