If you have lost multiple teeth, you may feel that a dental implant will not help. To have a dental implant placed for each of the missing teeth in your mouth may be expensive and time-consuming. However, if you are missing a large number of teeth, your dentist may still recommend dental implants as supports for other dental appliances. Here are a few instances in which dental implants are coupled with other tooth replacement options:

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are prosthetic appliances that are used to replace one or more teeth. A standard dental bridge is made of one or more false teeth in the center of the appliance, with a dental crown on each end.

The dental crowns are bonded to remaining teeth to stabilize the bridge. However, if there are no natural teeth remaining, the bridge crowns can be placed over dental implants.

Dental implants offer the same level of support as natural teeth would. Each implant screw is surgically inserted into the jawbone where it fuses with the bone cells through osseointegration. Once this fusion is complete, the dental implant is secure in your jawbone in the same way that a natural tooth root would be.

If dental implants are used to secure the bridge, they must be placed prior to the installation of the bridge appliance. The implants are strategically placed by the dentist to ensure that the bridge has adequate support. Once the bridge is connected to the dental implants, it is considered a permanent appliance. Not only is the aesthetic nature of your smile restored, your ability to chew and speak easily also returns.

Due to the stability provided by the dental implants, the bridge will not move about during everyday activities. The appliance is only removable by a dental professional.

Overdentures

Dentures are acrylic or porcelain false teeth that are attached to a base plate, which is made of acrylic or metal. Traditional dentures are held in place using the natural section of the mouth paired with dental adhesive. However, overdentures are connected to remaining teeth or dental implants.

The overdentures are still removable just as traditional dentures are. However, they are stabilized by connectors on the underside of the dentures that attach to implants or natural teeth. Once connected, the overdentures don't slip or migrate in the mouth. Thus, the patient can chew, speak and laugh with confidence.

If you have multiple teeth missing, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area to discuss your teeth replacement options.