Replacing missing teeth with a fixed implant bridge is a long-lasting solution that improves the appearance of your smile and restores natural chewing function. It also allows you to eat foods that were once difficult to eat or avoided altogether. Dental implant bridges are one of the most durable and realistic tooth replacement options available. They have a natural look and sensation and help preserve the structure of the jawbone. They also help distribute forces evenly in the bite, improving overall dental health and stability.

Unlike traditional dental bridges, implant-supported bridges utilize dental implants as anchors to prevent damage to healthy surrounding teeth. Read on to learn more about the benefits of implant-supported bridges:

They look natural

Modern dentistry has made significant progress in creating dental prosthetics that look and feel natural. These bridges are meticulously designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding teeth and gums, thanks to their use of high-quality materials that mimic the color and translucency of natural tooth enamel. However, staining from smoking and consuming stain-causing foods may affect their appearance over time. Regular dental care and oral hygiene practices can prevent this from occurring.

Traditional bridges rely on healthy adjacent teeth for support, but dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, preventing the need to alter the health of neighboring teeth. They also offer the best long-term durability and can last a lifetime with proper oral care.

They function like natural teeth

Traditional bridges rely on the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth to support them. These teeth, called abutment teeth, need to be prepared (some of their enamel needs to be removed) and are vulnerable to decay, gum disease, and other problems that can cause them to fail.

With an implant-supported bridge, there’s no need to prepare the surrounding teeth or risk their health. A bridge that’s secured to implants rests on top of them, distributing the pressure evenly and decreasing the risk of complications. Dental implant bridges also provide the confidence to eat your favorite foods without worrying about them falling out or breaking. Unlike a partial denture, an implant-supported bridge does not interfere with the bite and can be removed at home for cleaning. This makes it a more practical option for people with multiple missing teeth. However, it may not be a suitable solution for patients with significant bone loss as they might need additional treatment like a bone graft to ensure their implant-supported bridge is secure.

They prevent bone loss

Traditional dental bridges place a significant amount of strain on the adjacent natural teeth that support them. If these teeth are unhealthy, a tooth graft may be required before the bridge can be installed. This is a more invasive procedure than an implant-supported bridge.

Traditional bridges also don’t replace the missing tooth roots, which means that bone loss will continue after the bridge is installed. This can lead to a weaker bite and other oral health issues.

On the other hand, dental implants fuse with the bone and stimulate it, preventing further bone loss. The implants are more durable than traditional bridges, and can last a lifetime with proper care. In addition, they look and function more like healthy natural teeth. They can even prevent the need for additional restorations in the future. They are the only replacement tooth option that can do this. This makes them the most cost-effective solution in the long run.

They can last for a lifetime

A dental bridge restores chewing function, but the lifespan of the appliance depends on several factors. Traditional bridges connect to crowns on the abutment teeth and can last for 10 to 15 years. Cantilever and Maryland bridges, which are anchored on only one side, have shorter lifespans because they put greater stress on the abutment teeth.

Fixed implant bridges, which are anchored on dental implants in the jaw bone, can last for a lifetime with diligent care. The longevity of this type of restoration is due to its superior support and its integration with the remaining natural teeth and the jaw bone.

Regular visits to the dentist help keep the bridge and gums healthy and prevent problems like decay and infection. Avoid hard or sticky foods that exert excessive pressure on the bridge and contribute to damage over time. Also, consider a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, which can cause tooth wear and tear.