Dental implants aren’t just for a single missing tooth. They are also the ideal solution for someone missing several teeth, especially in a row. With the loss of multiple teeth, it is crucial to replace the missing teeth. It prevents bone deterioration and facial structure collapse.
Dental implants are the gold standard for those missing several teeth. Unfortunately, most dentists don’t train in the placement of dental implants. The most common solution is a fixed dental bridge, if there are surrounding healthy teeth. A removable partial denture (mini-denture) held in place by wire clasps that wrap around healthy teeth can also help.
Fortunately, with affordable dental implants from Dr. Sara Chen, you won’t have to deal with bulky restorations.
Fixed Dental Bridges
A dental bridge requires filing down the two surrounding healthy teeth so they can act as anchors for artificial teeth. We cement the artificial teeth onto the two surrounding teeth. The damage to the surrounding teeth is permanent.
Further, statistics reveal that these damaged teeth eventually fail because of the stress the bridge places on them. The result is the eventual loss of those teeth and an even longer bridge with an even shorter life span. A removable partial is unstable and uncomfortable, putting wear and stress on remaining healthy teeth.
When a patient misses several consecutive teeth, we typically use an implant-anchored dental bridge. Multiple dental implants offer a vastly superior solution because they restore the lost roots. It may take fewer implants than you think. Best of all, you don’t have to use one dental implant per tooth to replace each lost tooth.
An implant-supported bridge can replace three or more teeth because the dentist will only need to surgically place two implants. We secure the dental crowns to the implants on either side of the bridge. The dental bridge will look and feel like your natural teeth. You don’t need healthy teeth for this restoration.
When restoring multiple missing teeth, the dentist places two or more dental implants. The patient then wears a temporary removable appliance known as an Essix aligner. The aligner is clear, like an Invisalign aligner, and acts as replacement teeth during the healing period. These maintain a good cosmetic appearance, typically lasting from four to six months while the implants bond securely to the bone.
Once the implant integrates with the jawbone, we attach the fixed replacement teeth and complete the procedure. In some cases, placing immediate load implants right away can minimize the healing period and avoid an aligner.
How many implants will I need?
The number of implants you will need depends on the type of dental restoration you are getting. The location and amount of lost teeth will determine whether you need a dental bridge, partial denture, or full denture. We determine the number of implants you’ll need to secure a restoration at your implant consultation.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants will last a lifetime. However, they rely on the patient practicing good oral hygiene and visiting our Plano dental office for routine care. This allows our team to monitor the health and stability of the implant or implant-supported appliance.
When you are ready to take the next step, replace your missing teeth at our Plano dental office today. Give our dental care team a call at (972) 382-6855 or request an appointment online anytime.