What is an Implant Supported Bridge?
Implant-supported bridges are a natural solution for patients missing two or more teeth in a row. The bridge provides an aesthetically pleasing natural appearance and is a comfortable and permanent fix. The implant replaces the roots of the missing teeth, which slows down atrophy in the jaw.
How is an Implant-Supported Bridge Different Than a Traditional Bridge?
Similar to a traditional bridge, implant-supported bridges replace multiple consecutive teeth. While a traditional bridge is supported by crowns placed over the healthy adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge is attached to two or more titanium posts fused directly to the jaw.
The greatest advantage that implant-supported bridges have over traditional bridges is that healthy teeth surrounding the affected area do not need to be altered. For a traditional crown-supported bridge, the healthy teeth before and after the missing teeth will need to be filed down and shaped so that crowns may be fitted securely. The bridge will then be attached to these crowns to cover the gap caused by the missing teeth.
Traditional bridges merely cover the gap and do not produce downward pressure on the jawbone while chewing, sending signals to the brain that resources are not needed and can be sent elsewhere. In a healthy mouth, the brain interprets this pressure as a sign to send blood to the area which brings nutrients to strengthen the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges incorporate titanium posts (which are fused directly to the jawbone, simulating healthy tooth roots) that do provide this pressure, therefore preventing atrophy in the jawbone from occurring.
Implant supported bridges can be more expensive, invasive, and time-consuming, but are a more comfortable and permanent solution than traditional crown supported bridges. While both require multiple visits to the dentist, the duration between appointments for a traditional bridge will only require the time it takes to manufacture the permanent bridge. Implants will require an extensive recuperation period as the titanium posts need three to six months to properly fuse to the jawbone.
How Much Will an Implant Supported Bridge Cost?
The costs for a traditional bridge vary between $1,500-5,000 depending on how much work the dentist needs to do to prepare the site, the materials chosen for the bridge, and location and technical expertise of your dentist. These costs typically include x-rays and exams, crowns, and fabrication of the bridge.
An implant supported bridge will typically cost between $5,000 and $15,000 for a bridge spanning two to four missing teeth. For patients with compromised jaw conditions, bone grafts may be necessary, adding more time and cost to the procedure. Any tooth decay or gum disease will have to be treated first, adding to the cost.
Restoring Form and Function
Implant supported bridges are the perfect choice for most patients that need to replace multiple consecutive teeth. The implants promote jaw strengthening and the bridge allows for a natural-looking replacement that will perform just like natural teeth. Though it is expensive and time consuming, implant supported bridges can last a lifetime and be virtually indistinguishable from your original teeth, restoring both the form and function of your smile.