Dental Implant Bridges in Rochester, NY
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
What is an implant bridge?
An implant bridge is a dental bridge that is being supported by two or more implants, often replacing three or more teeth. When a few teeth are missing, often it is not necessary to replace every tooth with an implant crown. Rather, a few implants, placed at strategic positions, can hold a group of teeth. For example, if a person is missing upper anterior four teeth, the four teeth can be provided as a single unit bridge that is resting on only two implants. An implant bridge functions and looks like natural teeth.
There are different ways of replacing a group of missing teeth. A bridge retained by implants is only one way of doing so. Contact us to learn if an implant bridge is a suitable option for you.
Implant-Supported Bridge Process
The implant bridge can be planned when the teeth are already missing or when it is known that the teeth need to come out. It is beneficial to know as early as possible about the teeth that need to come out, as treatment outcomes of implants can be significantly improved with proper planning and timing.​​
​
Step 1 – Initial Assessment: Dr. Kuyunov will meet with you to go over your medical history, check the condition of your mouth, and assess space availability for an implant bridge. He will guide you through the various options available for replacing your missing teeth, detailing the indications and contraindications for each choice. He will answer all your questions and assess whether an implant-supported bridge is a suitable option for your needs.
​
During this appointment, a radiographic image known as a CBCT (Cone Beam CT) will be taken. This imaging provides Dr. Kuyunov with a three-dimensional view of your oral structures. Based on the scan results, he can assess whether implants can be placed immediately or if a bone augmentation procedure is necessary. This procedure, scheduled before implant placement, aims to create the minimum bone dimension required for the dental implants, which can be placed 4-6 months later.​​
​
Impressions of your teeth will be taken for two main purposes: to create a surgical guide for implant placement and to develop a suitable temporary tooth replacement prosthesis. We will strive to ensure you have teeth throughout the entire process, from the initial stages before surgery to the completion of your treatment.
Step 2 – Implant Placement Surgery: You will receive guidance on how to prepare effectively for this surgical procedure. Implant placement surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, and our team will make sure you feel completely comfortable and as pain-free as possible throughout the process. You may be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to take before the surgery. To give you an idea of what to expect, consider implant placement surgery as the opposite of tooth extraction, where implants are inserted into the bone where the tooth roots once were. The gums will then heal over the implants.
Step 3 – Healing Period: Following the placement of the implant, a healing period is necessary. The initial two to four weeks involve the healing of soft tissues, during which sensitivity should notably diminish. In the subsequent two months, healing primarily occurs at deeper levels within the bone, where it will grow and securely bond with the implants. This process of bone attaching to the implant, known as osseointegration, typically completes by the end of the third month.
Step 4 – Final Impressions and Prosthesis Production: After the implants have completely healed, an impression will be made to capture the precise position and orientation of the implants in your mouth. This will allow for the design and preparation of the implant bridge in the lab.
An implant bridge consists of multiple components. Custom abutments attach directly to the implants, supporting the bridge that sits on top of them. The bridge is divided into two sections: the retainer, which rests directly on the abutment, and the pontics, which are the teeth connected to the retainers. Each of these components—the abutments, retainers, and pontics—are tailor-made for you and designed to fit your specific implants.
Step 5 – Installation and Adjustments: The implant bridge and its abutments will be tested for fit and verified. It is essential that the bridge offers the correct bite, feel, and aesthetics. Any necessary adjustments will be made during this appointment. Finally, the implant bridge will be secured to the implants, and a final radiographic x-ray will be taken to confirm the proper fit.
Who is a good candidate for implant bridges?
At Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, NY, implant-supported bridges are an important part of our practice’s focus. Dr. Kuyunov and his staff will ensure that the process will be as comfortable as possible. Read below to learn who may want to consider implant-supported bridges:
​
-
People who are missing a few teeth and most other teeth are healthy might be a good candidate for implant bridges.
-
You have broken or damaged teeth that need to be removed and are looking for a long-lasting solution.
-
You have adequate jawbone density to receive dental implants.
-
You have good overall oral health.
​
If you are unsure whether you are a good candidate for an implant-supported bridge, contact us and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have​.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Bridges
-
Preserves Bone Structure – One of the most important benefits of having an implant-retained bridge is bone loss prevention. When a tooth is missing, the bone that once housed the tooth undergoes changes and shrinkage.
-
Maintains Position and Architecture of Surrounding Teeth – Implant-supported bridges preserve the architecture and position of surrounding teeth. When a tooth is missing, all other teeth may start to shift, due to the created missing space. Teeth may shift into the missing space. This can create unhealthy biting function. Tilted teeth can also create gum disease due to unhygienic orientation of teeth after tooth movement.
-
Maintains the Integrity of Surrounding Teeth – Neighboring teeth are not altered with an implant-supported bridge, as opposed to a conventional dental bridge. A non-implant supported dental bridge is supported by neighboring teeth which must be filed and thinned to retain the bridge. With implant-retained bridge, no other teeth are altered—thus retaining the integrity of surrounding teeth.
-
Long-Lasting Solution – Implant bridges are highly durable and designed to stay in place until they need to be repaired or replaced. Because they are attached to dental implants, they are only removable by a dentist. Implant-supported bridges can last a long time with proper oral hygiene practices.
-
Improves Function and Nutrition – When you replace missing teeth and natural chewing function is improved, it allows you to broaden the variety of foods you can eat—thus leading to better nutrition and overall improved health.
-
Improves Esthetics – When teeth are missing, many people are less likely to smile. Replacing missing teeth with an implant-supported bridge will provide you with a close-to-natural looking appearance, allowing you to smile with confidence.
​
If you are considering implant-supported dental bridges in Rochester, NY, Dr. Isaac Kuyunov is your best option.
Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, NY, implant-supported dental bridge specialists, will be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you prefer an alternative to an implant supported bridge, an examination by Dr. Kuyunov will help determine which type of bridge would be most beneficial to you.
Call us today at 585-471-5689 or click the link below to schedule an appointment.