Some of our patients are missing teeth or need to remove many teeth to restore their oral health. Lost teeth create a significant gap in their smile, leading to many health and speech issues. In addition, patients with many missing teeth may experience a drop in self-confidence, especially if it’s their front teeth. Multiple missing teeth can also lead to speech issues and chewing difficulties. Most importantly, the patient will suffer from bone loss resulting in changes to their facial structure, such as premature facial sagging. Missing teeth will give them that saggy, sunken-in look that can add years to their appearance.
If you have several consecutively missing teeth, Dr. Cappy Sinclair and Dr. Mark Reichley will recommend a dental bridge supported by dental implants in Virginia Beach, VA. No other option offers the same level of stability or function. Dental implant-supported restorations are the next best option after restoring natural teeth. Dr. Sinclair or Dr. Reichley will evaluate your teeth and oral health to determine if you qualify for teeth implants.
A dental bridge supported using two dental implants.
Benefits of Multiple Dental Implants
The use of multiple dental implants offers additional benefits for those who have lost several teeth due to trauma, decay, or other causes. By using multiple implants instead of just one, patients can enjoy improved stability, better chewing function, and enhanced facial structure. Other benefits include the following:
- Only fixed and permanent option
- Very stable and durable allowing for better chewing ability
- Prevents bone loss, preserving the facial structure and appearance
- Much more comfortable than a bridged anchored with teeth and a partial denture
- The dentist will not harm adjacent teeth
With the help of modern dental technology and advancements in implant surgery techniques, our dentists can place multiple dental implants with minimal discomfort and downtime. This makes them an ideal treatment option for our patients who want to restore their smile quickly and effectively.
Installing an Implant-Supported Bridge in Virginia Beach, VA
Installing an implant-supported bridge is a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. The procedure involves placing titanium posts in the jawbone, which act as anchors for the bridge. This type of bridge is more secure and stable than traditional bridges, as dental implants support it instead of natural teeth. The process typically involves multiple visits to the dentist and may require some preparation before installation. With proper care, an implant-supported bridge can last up to 15 years or more.
Your dentist will spend a significant amount of time in the pre-treatment and planning phase. Since no two patients are the same, a personalized treatment plan is necessary to get predictable and successful results. We achieve the best results when we address all hidden and underlying dental issues before conducting implant surgery. We will address issues such as bleeding gums, jaw pain, and tooth decay before starting any dental implant treatment plan.
Next, we will work off of your treatment plan to secure at least two dental implant posts in the jaw. These posts will serve as anchors for the dental bridge. Dental implants need about two to six months to fully fuse with the surrounding jaw bone. After the healing period, we will secure the new bridge to the implant posts.
When your mouth fully fuses with the post, we will secure a custom-designed dental bridge to the implants at our Virginia Beach office. The implant-secured dental bridge will blend in with the rest of your natural teeth. Fortunately, there are no special products that you have to purchase to keep your implant-supported bridge in excellent shape.
Implant-Supported Bridge Maintenance
To keep your implant-supported bridge looking and functioning its best, there are certain steps you should take to maintain it. Regular brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist twice a year will help keep your bridge looking good and functioning properly. Additionally, avoiding hard foods that could potentially chip or crack the bridge is also important for maintaining its health. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your dental bridge remains in good condition for years to come.
To learn more about our dental implant services, see:
- Dental implants in Virginia Beach, VA
- Dental Implant FAQs
- All-on-Four
- Benefits of All On Four Implants
- Teeth In A Day
- Single Dental Implants
- Cost of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
Other Multiple Missing Teeth Replacement Options
Alternatives to replacing many missing teeth include a removable partial denture or a fixed dental bridge supported by natural teeth. An anchor supports this type of dental bridge on both sides of the gap. Instead of using dental implants, Dr. Sinclair or Dr. Reichley will use two anchor teeth that they grind down to accommodate the bridge.
Compared to dental implants, a dental bridge is the more affordable replacement option. The major downfall is it will not prevent bone loss since it will not replace the tooth root. They will eventually require maintenance, repair, or replacement and may cost more than implants in the long run.
A removable partial denture is also a more affordable option but has significant flaws. They may feel awkward and are hard to adjust to. Its function is not even comparable to a dental implant-secured bridge. They consist of plastic and metal which people can easily notice when you smile. This option also does not prevent bone loss.