Initially dental implants were only used to replace an individual tooth that was lost to severe tooth decay or deep fracture. Over the course of the past two decades, dental implant technology and techniques have continued to advance. Now they can also be used to implant a bridge to replace one or more lost teeth that were lost in a single part of your mouth.
The first step in the dental implant process involves a periodontist or oral surgeon examining your mouth and taking some X-rays. This helps them to understand the available jaw structure and health of your mouth. If gum disease, tooth decay or past extractions have resulted in a loss of bone structure, you will need to have a bone graft procedure before the bridge can be implanted.
The implant procedure is often performed outpatient basis and usually requires deep sedation. You will need to have a friend or family member drive you and help you out at home for a little bit.
The procedure involves an oral surgeon or periodontist making two small incisions in the gums to gain direct access to the bone. Next they make two narrow channels in the bone and screw a titanium abutment into each one. Titanium is known to be biologically safe and will eventually fuse to your jawbone to provide a bridge with a very strong anchor.
They will suture the gums and cover each abutment with a temporary crown to protect them while the abutments fuse to the bone. Later, your dentist can start the process of fitting you for a standard bridge. With proper care it should last for many years to come.
If you have any questions about getting an implant bridge to replace multiple lost teeth, please feel free to call us at 402-317-5657 to schedule an appointment.