Replacing Multiple Teeth with Dental Implants
When you're missing several teeth, you have the option of replacing them with a removable partial denture, individual implant supported crowns or implant supported bridges.
Depending on the situation, your periodontist may recommend that a dental implant be placed to replace each missing tooth. This allows the teeth to function naturally as individual units, or be connected together for increased strength. Our treatment plans are always customized to your specific needs and are based on a number of factors including your jaw strength, bite, number of missing teeth, and bone quality, to name a few.
Sometimes, an implant to replace every missing tooth is not needed or even possible. In these situations, an implant supported bridge may be recommended. An implant supported bridge is a structure similar to a traditional dental bridge, with the exception that it is supported by implants rather than natural teeth. It is generally accepted that two implants can hold a three tooth bridge, three implants can hold a four or five tooth bridge and four to eight implants are required to hold longer bridges or full-arch bridges. An example of an implant supported bridge is depicted in the video below.
The alternative to replacing multiple teeth without the use of dental implants is a removable partial denture. The use of implants provides several advantages over removable partial dentures:
No bone loss or refitting needed
With partial dentures, the lack of tooth roots (or implants) deprive the jaw of stimulation needed to maintain optimum bone levels. This causes bone loss (atrophy) and can lead to other problems in your jaw. In addition, it often necessitates another visit to the dentist to re-fit the removable partial denture to new jaw contours.
Implants don't have to be taken out to be cleaned
While cleaning your dental implants is extremely important, the implants remain in your mouth to do so, just like your natural teeth. On the other hand, removable partial dentures are taken out and brushed in your hand. Also, dental implant restorations do not have to be removed at night like a removable partial denture does.
Dental implants are more stable and don't irritate your gums
Removable partial dentures often require adhesives to attach them to the gums, a substance that can be messy and sometimes doesn't work well at all. The retentive and stabilizing nature of dental implants is often a relief to those who have struggled with finding an adhesive that will make their dentures stay in place.Removable partial dentures that slip and slide can cause sore and irritated gums. After the initial recovery from dental implantation, soreness and irritation become things of the past.
You'll also never have to get up in the morning and "put in your teeth" before facing the world!