Implant-Supported Bridges:
AN ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL RESTORATIONS
Are you tired of having a gap in your smile? Is your dental bridge not living up to your expectations? Many patients are turning to implant-supported bridges to restore the feel and function of natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges provide a stronger base for chewing and speaking thanks to the use of titanium posts that are placed in the jawbone. Dental implants provide unparalleled support compared to dental crowns or clasps.
If you live in the Chicago, IL, area and are ready to explore the benefits of implant-retained bridges, Dr. Robert W. Hessberger offers the restorative treatments. A dentist since 1984, Dr. Hessberger has a reputation for providing honest, effective dental care.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Bridges
The main benefit of this safe and effective restorative treatment is that an implant-supported bridge looks and functions like natural teeth. Many of our patients report that implant-supported bridges make eating and chewing easier. Other benefits include:
• No shifting prosthetic
• Halted jawbone recession
• Prevention of shifted teeth
• Improved oral function
• Boosted self-confidence
• Natural-looking & long-lasting results
For many patients, a restored smile comes with increased comfort in public, from smiling at work to dining out.
Am I a Candidate?
In order to anchor dental implants, the jawbone must be dense and strong enough to support the posts. Unfortunately, many patients who seek an implant-supported bridge to replace lost teeth have experienced jawbone recession. If so, they may require either a bone graft or sinus lift to restore their candidacy for dental implants.
In addition to jawbone density, patients should also:
• Be in good oral and overall health
• Have two or three consecutive missing teeth
• Not use tobacco heavily
How Are Implant-Supported Bridges Placed?
The first step in your restorative treatment involves placing one or more dental implants. This procedure is performed using local anesthesia. Your doctor will make a small incision in your gums before setting the titanium posts in your jawbone. Afterward, the gums will be sutured shut and gauze will be used to control bleeding. If you take advantage of oral or IV sedation, you should arrange for a ride home after the procedure.
You will leave our office with your new bridge and the confidence of knowing that it will not slip when eating.
Over the next three to six months, the implants will fuse with your jawbone through a process known as osseointegration. Once your jawbone and gums have fully healed, a second appointment will be made for you to return to our office. During your visit, small metal attachments called abutments will be placed on your implant. These devices allow your custom bridge to be attached to the implant.
An impression will be made of your mouth soon after, from which a trusted laboratory can fabricate your custom bridge. Once your new bridge is ready, your dentist will ensure that it is a good fit and that your bite is secure. You will leave our office with your new bridge and the confidence of knowing that it will not slip when eating.
Restore Form and Function to Your Smile Today
If you are ready to enjoy the confidence that comes with the restored function that an implant-supported bridge can deliver, contact our office today by contacting us online or calling (773) 792-5562.