Multiple implants offer an ideal solution for multiple missing teeth. A single implant can typically only hold one crown, but multiple implants offer the ideal replacement for a bridge. You could replace up to 5 teeth using an implant bridge. This is a popular alternative to a partial denture as it will help to retain facial symmetry by preventing the jaw bone from shrinking.
This surgical procedure can be completed in our practice over 2-3 visits. Our skilled and experienced dental implant team can help you to achieve a natural-looking restoration that looks and functions just like your real teeth. With this restoration, you can eat your favourite foods, smile with confidence, and speak without worrying about your denture slipping.
The dental implant procedure takes place over multiple visits. We start by exposing the jaw bone and placing the small titanium implant in a pocket in the jaw. We’ll close the gum and then allow this to heal. The bone will fuse with the implant in a process known as osseointegration. This will provide a solid anchor for the implant bridge to rest on.
Once the implant has sufficiently healed, we will place a healing abutment on the top. The healing abutment is attached to the top of the implant and it’s purpose is to help contour the gum around the abutment to ensure the end result looks as natural as possible. Finally, we will place the final restoration, which is typically an implant bridge. Once completed, you’ll be able to smile with confidence again.
Proper care is essential for the long-term health of your implants. You will need to brush your teeth twice a day as you normally would, paying close attention to the area around your implant. You may also need to use specialist interdental brushes under the bridge to clear away any food debris. A water flosser is an excellent tool to help you care for your dental implants in a gentle way.
With multiple dental implants, you can have up to five teeth. This would be two crowns supported by the implants and then a pontic with 1-3 teeth, meaning a total of 5 teeth. This is an excellent alternative to a partial denture, as you won’t have to worry about it coming loose or falling out.
The entire process can take around 3-6 months to complete, depending on how quickly your body is able to heal. It’s important not to rush the dental implant process, as this could lead to your implant failing.