REPLACING A NUMBER OF TEETH
When replacing a number of teeth in the back of the mouth, a bridge on implants is the only possible fixed solution. Normal dentures do not offer the same stability or functionality.
Replacing your back teeth with dental implants guarantees you strength and stability which will allow you to eat whatever you like. This will also preserve your jawbone and thus your facial features.The stages involved in the treatment:
After the initial examination, you should expect there to be 4 or 5 consultations up until the final fitting of the permanent bridge. People usually feel some minor pain from the wounds to and swelling of the gums after the fitting of the implants, but in most cases a simple painkiller can deal with this. You will certainly feel ready to go back to work the next day.
1. Before the operation
The three back teeth are missing. The only possible alternative is to fit a bridge. A bridge is a series made up of a number of teeth which are fastened onto the implants.
2. Fitting the implants
The first stage is to fit implants. This stage is usually carried out in a single consultation. You may be offered a temporary bridge in the meantime, so that you can eat and talk more or less normally, as soon as you leave the dentist’s surgery.
3. Fixing the bridge into place
The implants have to be integrated into the jawbone before the permanent bridge can be connected and this operation is usually performed 1 to 2 months after the fitting of implants. The exact amount of time may vary depending on the teeth involved and the aesthetic requirements.
4. End result
The new bridge will be able to stand up to all the pressure which your natural back teeth had to cope with. This will be a stable, safe solution allowing you to eat whatever you like.
Alternative to fixed bridge :
Removable partial denture
People often think this alternative is both uncomfortable and rather difficult to fit properly. Dentures are definitely not as functional as a bridge on implants. They are manufactured using plastic and metal, which adversely affects their aesthetic appearance and they are fairly expensive to manufacture because of the many components involved. Even so, this solution is easy to fit and the natural teeth are spared.