Fill Gaps in Your Smile with an Implant-Supported Bridge

If you are missing two or more consecutive teeth, an implant-supported bridge can restore function and appearance to your smile. Unlike traditional bridges, this type of restoration does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Instead, implant-supported bridges are attached to small titanium posts placed in the jaw for a healthier and more stable tooth replacement option. At Family Dental Care in Flowood, MS, Dr. Danny O’Keefe performs dental implant placement using advanced Nobel Biocare™ implants. Once your implants are healed, he can attach a custom-designed bridge for a fully restored smile. 

Implant bridges rely entirely on dental implants for support. They require no alteration of your teeth.

Is an Implant-Supported Bridge Right for Me?

Typically, Dr. O’Keefe recommends implant-supported bridges for patients missing two or more consecutive teeth. However, dental implants have a few unique requirements. To qualify for an implant-supported bridge, you must:

• Be in good oral health
• Have sufficient jawbone tissue to support implants
• Have healthy gums
• Be free from conditions that could compromise healing

We can determine your candidacy for an implant-supported bridge during your initial consultation. Using digital x-rays and scans from our advanced 3-D computer imaging system, Dr. O’Keefe can assess the health of your jawbone and the other supporting structures of your smile. If you have gum disease, bone recession, or another issue limiting your candidacy, we can provide treatment to restore your oral health before implant placement. 

The Treatment Process

If you decide to proceed with dental implants, Dr. O’Keefe will use the information gathered in your consultation to precisely plan your treatment. Depending on your unique needs, your treatment plan may include preparatory procedures, such as a bone graft or periodontal care. 

Compared to traditional teeth replacement options, implant-supported restorations offer a wide range of advantages.

Once you have healed from these treatments, Dr. O’Keefe can place your dental implants. The size of your bridge will determine how many implants you need. It typically takes three to six months for implants to fuse completely with surrounding jawbone tissue. We may place a temporary restoration for you to wear during this time. After your healing period, you can return to our office for the design and placement of your permanent implant-supported bridge. 

The Benefits of an Implant-Supported Bridge

Compared to traditional teeth replacement options, implant-supported restorations offer a wide range of advantages. The two most important advantages are the preservation of dental tissue and the prevention of jaw atrophy. After tooth loss, the jaw will begin to shrink and change shape. However, with dental implants in place, the jaw will maintain its shape and bone density.

In addition, implant-supported bridges do not rely on neighboring teeth to stay in place. Conventional bridges use dental crowns placed over healthy teeth as anchors, requiring the removal of healthy dental tissue. With an implant-supported bridge, Dr. O’Keefe does not need to modify healthy teeth. The titanium posts provide incredible support for your bridge while maintaining the overall health of your smile. 

Rebuild Your Smile

Replacing missing teeth can improve the health, appearance, and function of your smile. Dental implants offer unparalleled advantages compared to conventional teeth replacement options. If you are missing two or more consecutive teeth, contact our office online or call (601) 936-2526 to learn more about implant-supported bridges today.