'Bridging' The Gap Between A Healthy Smile And You
If some of your teeth are missing or damaged, you may believe a healthy smile is beyond your reach. However, there are options for rejuvenating your teeth and giving you the smile you've always wanted. One of these options is a dental bridge implant.
What is a Dental Bridge Implant?
A dental bridge implant, or fixed implant bridge, is a non-removable appliance designed to replace missing or damaged teeth. There are several different bridges, but the most traditional and popular ones are made of porcelain and metal because porcelain bridges resemble your natural teeth the most closely. A fixed implant bridge can quickly replace missing teeth by utilizing metal implants in the jawbone attached to a row of artificial teeth, or pontics.
Implant Bridges vs. Non-Implant Bridges
There are different kinds of dental bridges. Fixed implants involve metal posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. Porcelain tooth caps supporting replacement teeth are then screwed onto the posts on either side of your bridge. Non-implant bridges are made of porcelain replacement teeth suspended by two crowns on either side. The crowns are fitted over natural teeth on either side of a gap in your smile, holding your replacements in place. Implant bridges are good if you have three or more missing teeth in a row, while non-implant bridges work best with less than three in a row.
What are the Benefits of a Dental Bridge Implant?
Both the tooth caps and replacement teeth in bridges resemble your natural teeth very closely. If cared for and maintained adequately, it can be difficult for anyone to tell that a bridge is present. And because the teeth are implanted in your jawbone, they can last a lifetime without needing to be replaced.
Their structure also means that you can eat and drink normally with a dental bridge implant in place. There's no concern about your prosthetic becoming loose or falling out and requiring another visit to your dentist's office. However, you should exercise the same caution about eating or chewing on hard objects, as porcelain can still chip or break just like your natural teeth.
Caring for a Dental Bridge Implant
Oral hygiene remains mostly the same once you have a dental bridge implanted. However, there is a gap between your gums and the pontics that can host bacteria. Be mindful of this and rinse with mouthwash often, brush at least twice a day, and floss under your pontics when you can.
Because dental bridge implants require a minor surgical procedure, there is a degree of pain management and recovery. You should be able to take over-the-counter medication to deal with the discomfort and swelling. General recovery takes up to two weeks. Through a process called osseointegration, your bone can eventually fuse with the implant, providing a natural bond. This process can take about 5-7 months to complete.
What is the Cost of a Dental Bridge Implant?
The initial cost of a dental implant bridge can sometimes be an investment, but because dental implant bridges are intended to last for a very long time, if not a lifetime, they are inexpensive in the long term. Some other orthodontic treatments require visits for replacements or tune-up procedures. But implant bridges require the normal amount of hygiene with one or two adjustments to account for them.
In addition, the cost of any dental implant is dependent on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, the number of implants needed, the type of implant that is necessary, and whether your orthodontist needs to perform any additional procedures.
Your insurance policy may cover half the cost of your bridge, depending on the policy terms. Fortunately, Charlotte Dental Implant Center is willing to work with your insurance provider to help you figure out what they will cover and file a claim. There are also several payment plan options available.
Book an Appointment with Us
Whether you need a dental implant bridge or any other procedure, we offer a wide range of dental services for general and cosmetic oral health. Our offices are equipped with the latest advanced dental technology, and we maintain a focus on your comfort to ensure that you have the best possible experience. So give us a call today at (704) 375-4252, or contact us online. We hope to see you smile!