ALL TEETH MISSING

Benefits of a fixed bridge on implants
When all teeth are missing or in such condition that they need to be replaced, a fixed bridge anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution

Before dental implants, there were no fixed solution available for people who lost all their teeth. Today, it is possible to replace a full jaw with dental implants and a fixed bridge that results in a permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.

• Lets you eat and function like having natural teeth
• A solid, stable solution that will serve you for life
• Preserves your facial appearance and prevents bone loss 

Treatment:
The treatment procedure and number of visits is largely dependent on the specific conditions. Your Oral Surgeon will work together with your general dentist to design the best treatment plan for you.

COURSE OF TREATMENT

INSTALLING THE FIXED BRIDGE– STEP-BY-STEP

The course of treatment described here is one of several options available. Consult your general dentist to find out what the best solution is for you, given your specific condition.

1: Before the procedure Your dentist will discuss with you the best course of treatment for your situation; and will work as a team with our Oral Surgeon.	2: Installing the implants The Oral Surgeon will install the dental implants to replace the lost tooth roots. In this case five implants are used. A temporary denture can be made by your general dentist while waiting for the implants to integrate with the jawbone, approximately 3-6 months.

3: Attaching the bridge Your general dentist will secure the  final bridge on top of the implants.	4: End result Your new teeth should be hard to tell from natural – both for you and others. People who have had traditional dentures before getting a fixed bridge often describe this as an overwhelming and very positive experience.

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ALTERNATIVES TO A FIXED BRIDGE

	An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which is anchored on implants. The old fashioned denture has many disadvantages and is not for everyone.
	Removable, implant anchored overdenture A removable full denture that is connected to either a ball or bar attachment, which in turn is anchored on two or more implants in the front part of the jaw. The implants help keep the denture in place and provide better function and comfort. Cost is usually the reason why this solution is chosen over a fixed bridge – although the end result can’t be compared.
	Removable full denture A denture that is loosely placed on top of the gum to cover the lost teeth. This alternative has no real advantages – except for its low price and easy installation. The disadvantages are many: discomfort in eating, poor esthetics, affected speech, and sore gums from denture movement. Moreover, a full denture placed in the upper jaw severely reduces the sense of taste.