What Are Implant-Supported Bridges Made Of?
If you have a missing tooth or several missing teeth, you may be at a loss trying to determine the best treatment option. In reality, nothing replaces your natural teeth, but the good news is that an implant-supported bridge is a great option that gets pretty close. Dental prostheses, like a bridge, can wear and break just like natural teeth. When deciding on a bridge and the provider to install it, you will want to consider who is installing the bridge and how it is made. If you want the best option for replacing missing teeth, make sure to ask your dental provider about their options for dental implant prosthetics and what they have to offer. Approaching this conversation with questions and an open mind will help you find the best tooth replacement option for you.
What Is an Implant Supported Bridge?
An implant-supported bridge is a great restoration option for patients who are missing multiple teeth. The most conventional implant-supported bridge option is designed to replace 3-4 teeth with one prosthetic. An implant-supported bridge is a durable, long-lasting, and affordable replacement option for multiple missing teeth that will restore the look and function of your natural smile.
What Are Implant Supported Bridges Made Of?
An implant-supported bridge consists of several parts:
- The dental implants: Commonly made of titanium, the implants are placed in the upper or lower jawbone to replace the root of the missing teeth.
- The abutment(s): Which can be made of titanium, gold, or porcelain, are attached on top of the implant and are the piece that connects the implant(s) to the bridge.
- The bridge: The bridge is the part of the restoration that looks like the natural teeth. It is commonly made of tooth-colored ceramics, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or composite resin. The bridge is securely attached to the abutment.
Maintenance of Implant-Supported Bridges
The lifespan of an implant -supported bridge depends on many factors, including daily hygiene habits, oral health conditions like grinding, diet, and overall health. In general, an implant-supported bridge is thought to be stronger than a traditional bridge, which is supported by nearby teeth. Because they are securely attached to dental implants placed in the jawbone, implant bridges cannot be routinely removed from the mouth. This feature makes them more durable and secure but also more difficult to clean and to clean around. This means daily brushing and flossing are key to long-term maintenance. Keys to maintenance include:
- Cleaning the bridge every day: Just like natural teeth, bridges need to be brushed twice daily, and the area around them kept clean and free of food debris that can cause bacteria and future dental problems.
- Routine dental visits: Just like regular oral health, dental bridges require regular visits to the dentist. This ensures potential issues are identified early.
- Overall health: Keeping the jawbone and the body healthy are keys to supporting dental implants. Without enough nutrition, the jawbone may become weak and cause the implants to become loose or fall out.
Related Article: How Many Teeth Can Implants Replace?