A dental implant bridge is commonly used for patients who are missing multiple teeth adjacent to one another. A range of 1-8 dental implants are used to support the bridge. The bridge can accommodate 2-14 prosthetic teeth. Based on the number and location of the missing teeth, the dentist will determine the number of implants which should be used as the foundation. In most cases, the dentist can strategically place two implants which are able to support 3-4 missing teeth. 4-6 implants can be used to support a bridge which replaces the entire upper or lower jaw. When all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are being replaced, it is called full mouth dental implants or all-on-4.
Simple implant bridges can be used to replace 3-4 teeth. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw on each end of the gap where the missing teeth are located. After the implants are placed and have healed, the bridge will be attached. Two other types of bridges commonly used are the cantilever and front teeth implant bridges, however, there are many different types of bridges.
Implant Supported Bridge
An implant supported bridge begins with the dentist placing two implants at each end of the gap where the missing teeth are located. While implants can be adjacent to one another, this placement fails to provide needed support for the bridge. A bridge which has an unsupported side is called a cantilever bridge. In some cases, the patient and dentist opt to place three individual implants and crowns. While this solution is rather expensive, it is more attractive and easier to clean.
Cantilever Implant Bridge
Cantilever implant bridges can work when the unsupported portion of the crown is less than ½ the overall length of the supported part of the implant prosthetic. After the implants have a chance to heal, the dentist will attach the bridge to the implants. Fewer implants are needed to support a bridge, making it less expensive compared to individual implants. Dentists often use cantilever implant bridges when there is limited space available for the implants. At least 1 mm of bone must be present between two implants.
Individual implants may be the optimal solution, but they are also very expensive. The implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss. Individual teeth are more natural in their appearance and easier to clean. Because cantilever bridges require fewer implants, they are also more affordable.
Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) is a new technique that helps heal the gums and bone surrounding the implant. The implant in a cantilever bridge should be placed into the area that allows for the larger implant. Dentists must consider how the implant will look cosmetically during placement. Bridges which are highly visible when the patient smiles or a bridge which is located in the front of the patient’s mouth makes the cosmetic aspect especially important.
The average cost for an implant supported bridge will vary depending on the number of teeth being replaced by the bridge. Implant bridges typically replace 3-4 teeth and a simple implant bridge costs an average of $10,000 to 15,000. This includes removal of the teeth, two dental implants, and the bridge containing 3-4 prosthetic teeth. If the patient requires additional procedures including sedation or bone grafting, there will be an increase in cost.