ALL TEETH MISSING

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

Before dental implants, there was 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 or denture 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 specific conditions, especially if you have bone loss. But all in all, 8-10 visits should be enough to have a fixed bridge or denture installed. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated.  See example below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                     Before                                                   After

 

This is an example of teeth on a conventional denture not in proper position due to bone loss under lower denture. (Note: upper teeth are set too far from nose to make up for too little lower teeth height.)

 

  

 

This is an example of a corrected upper denture. However, lower deformity remains due to improper lower denture height as patient cannot use lower denture with proper upper denture. (Note:  "witch's chin" as a result of not enough lower lip support from teeth.)

 

 

 

 Six implants support the bar.  This elevates teeth off of gum tissue so teeth are fully supported by bone, just like natural teeth.

 

 

                                                    

With this lower denture, teeth are able to be supported and fixed to   their natural position.

 

 

 

                                                      

                                                         

Patient now has fully supported lower denture.  She can eat, smile and talk with confidence now that her teeth are in her natural position.  (Note:  patient now has fully supported upper and lower lips and no "witch's chin".)

        

With dental implants, your teeth will feel as if you have your natural teeth.  They will look 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.  Please contact our office if you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Welsh to find out the options available to you. 

 
ALTERNATIVES TO A FIXED BRIDGE

  An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which is anchored on top of implants. The old fashioned denture has many disadvantages and should be avoided if possible.
  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.