Fixed Bridge or Implant-Supported Bridge?

If you have one or more missing teeth, a fixed bridge may be a good option for you to regain a healthy, functional smile. A fixed bridge is cemented into place and supported by the teeth on either side of the missing tooth/teeth. Your dentist in Lincoln, NE, will replace your missing tooth with a pontic (fake) tooth. We match the shape and color of your surrounding teeth to provide a bridge that looks and functions like your original teeth.

The cost of a dental bridge is less than the cost of a dental implant, which is why some people choose the more affordable bridge option. However, bridges don’t preserve the bone structure of your jaw like a natural tooth or implant does so you may experience receding bone structure. Regular checkups and monitoring can help to preserve your newly gained oral health.

Who can benefit from Dental Implants?

Implants are for people with missing teeth or with teeth that need to be extracted. With today’s technology, just about anyone can get implants.

Sometimes your dentist must take preliminary steps to prepare you for your implants. These steps may include adding bone to the jawbone where the bone structure has been lost or lifting a sinus to make room for the dental implant.

Dental Bridge versus Dental Implants

Which one is a better option?

This can be a tough decision. Here are a few general guidelines we follow that may help you decide. If the adjacent teeth around a missing space are already cracked or decayed and require crowns, a bridge is a more practical option. However, a dental implant is almost always the number one option. Also, an implant is the most conservative option for tooth replacement because teeth adjacent to the missing space are not affected by the placement of an implant.

Choosing to place an implant rather than a bridge also gives the benefit of preserving bone. When teeth are removed, bone dissolves in the space the tooth once occupied. This can result in a sunken-in appearance from a lack of bone support for facial structures. Implants keep bone active and prevent resorption.

Who Can Benefit from Implants?

Patients who have one missing tooth, especially a chewing tooth, can benefit from this procedure. Rarely, a patient may not be a good candidate for the successful placement of implants and on occasion, additional surgery may be needed to ensure adequate bone support to the implants being placed.

Will I have bone loss after removing my teeth?

When teeth are removed, bone loss occurs naturally. Over time, this leads to a sunken-in appearance to the face. If teeth have been missing for an extended time, replacing them using dental implants may not be an option due to lack of bone support for the implants. The only way to prevent bone loss after removing teeth is to place implants in the bone. This keeps the bone active. Wearing traditional dentures does nothing to preserve bone. If you have dentures or are interested in high-end dentures or total-tooth replacement options, you can contact our office for a consultation to learn more about your options.

What is an implant-retained over-denture?

An implant-retained over-denture is a great option for patients who cannot do a hybrid prosthesis. This type of prosthetic requires 2-4 implants to be placed in the bone. A custom-designed removable denture then attaches to these implants, creating a secure fit that allows patients to chew more comfortably than they could in a traditional denture. You and your dentist will design a smile that not only gives you superior function and aesthetic results to a traditional denture, but also helps to preserve bone and prevent loss of support for facial structures.

What is a cosmetic denture?

A cosmetic denture is custom-designed by your dentist through a series of appointments to create a precise fit and most aesthetic result possible. When patients choose a cosmetic denture, they receive an additional set of dentures to wear during healing immediately after teeth are removed, so they are never without teeth. Once the bone has finished healing after tooth removal, subsequent appointments with your Lincoln, NE dentist are for creating a precise, beautiful result. The only negative aspect of cosmetic dentures is the lack of insurance coverage due to multiple appointments.