Multiple tooth replacement dental implants
Options for replacing multiple teeth are multiple single-tooth implant restoration, with implant fixed partial dentures (Implant bridges), with a removable partial denture or with a conventional fixed partial denture.
What are implant bridges?
Implant bridges are used to replace the support lost from missing teeth, avoid the need to drill down the adjacent teeth and do not require an implant for every missing tooth. The space, gum tissue and underlying bone must be suitable to place dental implants.
The implants are then strategically placed to replace missing teeth. Once the implants are stable and the healing process complete, an abutment will be attached to the implant to connect the final bridge (prosthesis) to it. An impression is then performed recording the contours of the abutments or the position of the implant tops. Once this is complete, an implant bridge is then fabricated and retained in place using cement or screws.
Although bridges are not susceptible to cavities, oral hygiene needs to be maintained in order to assure proper function.
What is a conventional removable partial denture?
A conventional removable partial denture is intended for patients that want to be able to remove the restoration on a daily basis and do not want it permanently fastened. This restoration should be removed daily in order to maintain proper oral hygiene to your natural teeth and the prosthesis. The removable partial denture is made up of a metal framework, denture teeth and acrylic. The denture is attached to your natural teeth by metal arms (grasps) to keep the prosthesis in place.
What is the major advantage of a removable partial denture?
- Â Minimal preparation to the adjacent teeth (compared to a bridge)
- Â Reduce expenses
- Â Easy access for proper oral hygiene
- Â Cosmetic replacement of the lost volume of gum and bone
What is a conventional fixed partial denture (Bridge)?
A fixed partial denture requires reduction of two or more adjacent teeth to make crowns that will be connected to each other with a false (prosthetic) tooth suspended between them. The fixed bridge increases the functional forces placed upon the supporting teeth and also complicates the use of floss between the teeth. Each case is different so your dentist will identify how many teeth need to be reduced as many factors come into play here. Regular Periodontal maintenance is recommended to keep the supporting teeth of the Bridge healthy, which should help avoid cavities or periodontal disease.
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