ALL TEETH MISSING

Benefits of a fixed bridge on implants

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 solutions 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 highly esthetic solution.

• Allows you to eat and function as if you have natural teeth
• A solid, stable solution that will serve you for life
• Preserves your facial appearance and prevents further bone loss 

Treatment:

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 with your Periodontist to find out what the best solution is for you, given your specific condition.

1: Before the procedure
The Periodontist determines what needs to be done and prepares the patient for the coming treatment procedure.

2: Installing the implants
The first step in installing dental implants is 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 the bridge
The final bridge is securely installed on top of the implants. With a full jaw replacement like this, it normally takes several 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.

ALTERNATIVES TO A FIXED BRIDGE

An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which is anchored on implants. The old fashioned denture still has advantages but will fit much better if there are four or more implants supporting this prosthesis.

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 or back 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 can’t be compared.

Removable full denture
A denture that is loosely placed on top of the gum to cover the missing 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.