Implant-Supported Bridges in Fort Worth, TX

Understanding Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a custom-made replacement for one or more missing teeth that literally “bridges” the gap. Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a false tooth or teeth in between. These are typical solutions for filling the spaces left by lost teeth, helping to restore both the functionality and aesthetics of your smile.

What Sets Implant-Supported Bridges Apart?

• Natural Appearance and Functionality: Tailored to mimic your natural teeth in color, shape, and size, these bridges ensure a seamless and confident smile. They enable you to enjoy normal activities like eating, talking, and smiling with ease.
• Oral Health Enhancement: By stimulating bone growth, these fixed bridges counteract the bone loss typically seen with tooth loss, thus preserving both oral health and facial contours.
• Long-Lasting and Dependable: Noted for their durability, implant bridges can endure for years with appropriate care, offering a trustworthy solution for the long term.
• Comfort and Ease of Use: Designed to resemble natural teeth, these bridges are comfortable and simple to care for, removing the need for adhesives and the inconveniences often linked with removable dentures.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Implant supported bridges are suited for individuals who have lost one or more teeth and have sufficient bone density to support a dental implant. Candidates should also have good overall oral health and a commitment to maintaining oral hygiene. Our Fort Worth dentists will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including dental X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, to determine if implant-supported bridges are the best solution for you.

The Unparalleled Strength of Zirconia

In our Fort Worth dental practice, we predominantly use zirconia for our implant bridges. Zirconia stands out for its exceptional strength and aesthetic qualities, closely resembling the look of natural teeth. It is also highly biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and ensuring a comfortable fit for our patients.

Choosing Between Fixed & Removable Bridges

We recognize that each patient’s needs and preferences are unique. Therefore, we offer both fixed and removable implant-supported bridges. Fixed bridges are permanently attached for maximum stability and require no special maintenance. Removable bridges provide the flexibility of being taken out for cleaning, making them a practical choice for some patients. Our dentists in Fort Worth will discuss these options with you and help determine which type best suits your lifestyle and dental needs.

Getting Implant-Supported Bridges With Us

Embark on a transformative dental journey at Texas Implant & Dental Center of Fort Worth. Our dedicated team ensures a comfortable, personalized experience at every step:

• Initial Consultation and Exam: Begin with a comprehensive oral exam, including X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, to assess your suitability for implants.
• Custom Treatment Plan: We discuss your dental history and goals, crafting a plan tailored to your needs.
• Preparatory Procedures (If Needed): Bone grafts or tooth extractions might be necessary to prepare for the implant.
• Implant Placement: Under anesthesia, titanium implants are placed into the jawbone.
• Healing and Osseointegration: A crucial period where the implant integrates with the jawbone.
• Custom Bridge Creation: We design a bridge that matches your natural teeth.
• Final Bridge Placement: The custom bridge is securely attached once the implants integrate.
• Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up: Guidance on recovery and regular check-ups are provided.

Exploring Alternatives to Implant Bridges

While implant-supported bridges are highly effective for many patients, we understand the importance of personalized care and offer various alternatives, each with its unique benefits:

Traditional Dental Bridges:

• Overview: These bridges use the adjacent teeth for support, with the replacement tooth or teeth spanning the gap.
• Pros: They are a faster and less invasive option, usually requiring only two visits to the dentist and no surgery.
• Cons: They may necessitate the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth and can lead to bone loss in the jaw over time, potentially altering the facial structure

Partial Dentures

• Overview: Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth, clipped onto the remaining teeth with metal clasps.
• Pros: They offer a more affordable solution and are generally easier to fabricate and adjust.
• Cons: They may not provide the same level of stability as implants and can be less comfortable, requiring more maintenance and care.

Full Dentures

• Overview: Full dentures are a complete set of removable artificial teeth for those missing most or all of their teeth.
• Pros: They are a more budget-friendly option for extensive tooth loss and can be made relatively quickly.
• Cons: Full dentures may not offer the same natural feel or function as implant-supported options and can require adhesives for stability.

Each option is carefully considered during your consultation at our Fort Worth office, ensuring you choose the most suitable solution for your individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Implant-Supported Bridges Last?

With diligent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, these bridges can last many years, often surpassing the lifespan of traditional bridges or dentures.

Is the Procedure Painful?

We prioritize patient comfort. Local anesthesia and, if necessary, sedation options are available to ensure a pain-free experience. Post-procedure discomfort is generally mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief or prescribed medication.

How Do I Care for My Implant-Supported Bridge?

Care for an implant-supported bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth, involving regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. It’s also essential to avoid chewing extremely hard substances that could damage the bridge.

Are Implant Bridges Noticeable?

Our implant-supported bridges are designed for discretion. They are indistinguishable from natural teeth, ensuring that your smile looks completely natural.

Can I Eat Normally?

These bridges restore nearly all of your natural chewing ability, allowing you to enjoy most of your favorite foods. However, as with natural teeth, it’s wise to be cautious with extremely hard or sticky foods.

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

The time frame varies from patient to patient. While the initial placement of the implants might be completed in one visit, the entire process, including healing and fabrication of the bridge, can take several months.

Is Everyone Eligible for Fixed Bridges?

Good candidates are those in overall good health, with adequate bone density in the jaw and no significant oral health issues. Patients with certain chronic conditions or who smoke may require additional evaluation. 

Revitalize Your Smile with Dental Implants in Fort Worth, TX!

Are you ready to discover the advantages of implant-supported bridges? Contact our Fort Worth office today for a consultation. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring a journey that leads to a healthier, more radiant smile.