Implant Supported Bridges

What Are Implant-Supported Bridges?

An implant-supported bridge is a dental restoration designed to replace missing teeth using dental implants as anchors. Unlike traditional dental bridges that rely on neighboring natural teeth for support, implant-supported bridges are fixed in place by a set of titanium posts (implants) that are surgically placed into the jawbone.

This method not only provides stability and a natural look but also helps maintain jawbone health, unlike removable dentures or traditional bridges that can sometimes lead to bone loss over time.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges offer several key advantages:

• Stability and Comfort: They are securely anchored to dental implants, providing a stable, non-shifting solution that allows you to eat, speak, and smile confidently without worrying about them slipping.
• Natural Appearance: Custom-designed to match your natural teeth, these bridges blend seamlessly with your smile, offering a highly aesthetic result.
• Durability: Implant-supported bridges are built to last. With proper care, they can remain functional and beautiful for many years, making them a long-term investment.
• Jawbone Preservation: Unlike traditional bridges, implants help stimulate and preserve your jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the structure of your face.
• No Need for Altering Adjacent Teeth: Unlike traditional bridges that require modifying neighboring teeth, implant-supported bridges don’t affect healthy surrounding teeth, preserving their integrity.

How Do Implant-Supported Bridges Work?

The process of getting an implant-supported bridge is fairly straightforward, but it does require multiple visits to the dentist. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Initial Consultation and Planning: During your first visit to Dr. Kontos, he will assess your oral health, check for sufficient bone density, and discuss your treatment options. If you don’t have enough bone structure to support implants, he may recommend a bone grafting procedure.
2. Implant Placement: Once you’re a suitable candidate, the next step involves placing the dental implants into the jawbone. The titanium posts are inserted through the gum tissue and into the bone. Over the next few months, the implants will fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a secure base for your bridge.
3. Creating the Bridge: After the implants have fully integrated, Dr. Kontos will take impressions of your mouth to custom-make the bridge. This bridge will be designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a comfortable and natural fit.
4. Attaching the Bridge: Once the bridge is ready, it will be securely attached to the implants. Your new teeth will look and function just like your natural teeth, restoring both your appearance and ability to eat and speak confidently.

Are You a Candidate for Implant-Supported Bridges?

Ideal candidates for implant-supported bridges should meet a few basic criteria:

• Healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density.
• Non-smokers (or smokers willing to quit) as smoking can affect healing.
• Those who are missing one or more teeth in a row.

If you’re not sure whether you’re a candidate, Dr. Kontos can perform a thorough evaluation during your consultation and recommend the best solution for your needs.

Caring for Your Implant-Supported Bridge

Taking care of your implant-supported bridge is similar to caring for natural teeth. Here are a few tips to ensure your bridge lasts as long as possible:

• Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush.
• Floss daily to keep the area between your implants and gums clean.
• Avoid hard foods that could damage the bridge.
• Regular dental checkups with Dr. Kontos every six months to monitor the health of your implants and overall oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Achieve a Fully Functional Smile Today!

An implant-supported bridge is an excellent solution for those missing teeth and looking for a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing restoration. With the guidance of a skilled professional like Dr. Emanuel Kontos, you can reclaim your smile with confidence. If you think you might be a candidate for this life-changing procedure, reach out today to your Tarpon Springs dentist by calling 727-361-0326 to schedule your consultation and start the journey toward a healthier, more vibrant smile.