RESTORE YOUR SMILE WITH AN IMPLANT-SUPPORTED BRIDGE
For patients missing two or more consecutive teeth, an implant-supported bridge can provide a comfortable, natural-looking solution with many important benefits. Dental implants directly replace tooth roots and protect your jaw against atrophy, making them the best solution for replacing missing teeth. Dr. George A. Betancourt is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists who can place and restore dental implants at Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney in Charlotte, NC.
What Is an Implant-Supported Bridge?
Implant-supported bridges are very similar to traditional bridges. However, instead of being supported by dental crowns placed over adjacent teeth, implant-supported bridges attach to small titanium posts embedded in the jaw. The number of posts placed will depend on the size of the bridge.
Implant-Supported Bridges versus Traditional Bridges
To receive an implant-supported restoration, you must first undergo implant surgery. This typically requires two procedures separated by four to six months of recovery time.
Though they require a greater investment of time and money, an implant-supported bridge offers many advantages over traditional restoration options. With traditional bridges, the teeth surrounding the gap in your smile must be altered for crown placement. Since implant-supported restorations do not rely on teeth for support, they require no removal of healthy tissue. They are also extremely stable, and you can depend on them to stay in place while you eat, speak, and smile.
In addition, implants are the only method of tooth replacement that protects your jawbone against atrophy. An implant-supported restoration replaces your entire tooth from root to crown. By replacing tooth roots, the implant signals your body to send resources to that area of the jaw. Without tooth roots, the body will begin to distribute the bone tissue of the jaw elsewhere. With proper care, your implant posts can last a lifetime and facilitate long-term oral health.
Explore Your Candidacy
To qualify for dental implants, you must be in good oral health and have sufficient tissue in your jawbone to support the implants. For certain patients, compromised implant candidacy can be restored by undergoing a preparatory procedure such as a bone graft or sinus lift. If you have an oral health condition such as gum disease or tooth decay, we must resolve these issues before placing implants. Smokers must be willing to cease the habit for a period before and after implant surgery. Ideally, they should break the habit for good. Uncontrolled diabetes can also preclude patients from receiving implants. We can help create a strategy that allows implants to become a beneficial component of your smile.
For patients missing two or more consecutive teeth, an implant-supported bridge can provide a comfortable, natural-looking solution with many important benefits.
Budgeting for an Implant Bridge
Most insurance plans contribute to the cost of a bridge, but few contribute to the cost of dental implants. We want to make this option accessible to all patients. We accept CareCredit® and Citi® Health Card financing help make this incredibly beneficial treatment a fit for most budgets through affordable monthly payments.
Restore Form and Function
If you have lost multiple teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be the solution for you. Find out if you are a candidate for this solution by contacting our office online or calling us at (704) 543-1102 today.
