245 Center St, Unit 2, Auburn, ME 04210
What Are Implant-Supported Bridges?
An implant-supported bridge is a strong, lasting way to replace several missing teeth in a row. Instead of relying on your neighboring teeth for support the way a traditional bridge does, it attaches to dental implants placed directly in the jawbone. These implants act like artificial tooth roots, holding the bridge firmly in place and helping to prevent the bone loss that follows missing teeth.
Once the implants heal and fuse with the bone, a custom bridge is secured on top to restore your bite, your smile, and your confidence. This treatment is an excellent choice if you have lost two or more teeth side by side, offering a natural look and feel along with long-term durability. At Auburn Dentures & Implants, Dr. Kessler helps patients across Auburn, Lewiston, and the greater Androscoggin County area replace missing teeth with results built to last.
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Implant-Supported Bridges vs. Traditional Bridges and Removable Partials
Traditional dental bridges can be a good option for some patients, but they are not right for everyone. A traditional bridge anchors to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. If those teeth are not strong or stable enough to carry the load, the treatment cannot deliver the healthy, lasting smile you deserve.
A removable partial denture is another common choice, and it too depends on the surrounding teeth for support. While a partial can replace several missing teeth at once, it is not fixed in place. It can shift or move while you eat or speak, which makes chewing less comfortable and can limit the foods you enjoy. Over time, neither a traditional bridge nor a partial denture prevents bone loss in the jaw. That bone loss often leads to bite changes, shifting of the healthy teeth, and even further tooth loss.
An implant-supported bridge solves these problems. With this treatment, we can replace three or more missing teeth using as few as two dental implants that anchor the bridge securely. Because dental implants function like artificial tooth roots, they stimulate and preserve the jawbone, keeping it strong and healthy. This helps maintain your natural bite and prevents your remaining teeth from drifting out of place.
Over the long term, implant-supported bridges tend to be more stable, more functional, more natural-looking, and more comfortable than traditional bridges or partial dentures. Traditional bridges may eventually expose metal or fail if a supporting tooth develops decay, and partials may slip or cause irritation. An implant-supported bridge is designed to look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Implant-Supported Bridge?
An implant-supported bridge is a strong option for patients who are missing several teeth and have healthy gums, good overall oral health, and enough jawbone to support dental implants. If bone loss has already occurred, a procedure such as bone grafting or a sinus lift may be recommended before treatment begins.
The best candidates do not smoke, keep up with good oral hygiene, and are committed to regular dental care. Conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, or uncontrolled diabetes will need to be treated or well managed before implant surgery. The only way to know for certain is a consultation, where Dr. Kessler will evaluate your oral health and let you know your options.
Your Implant Bridge Journey at Auburn Dentures & Implants
We guide you through every step, so you always know what comes next.
Consultation and Evaluation.
Your journey begins with a consultation. We take detailed imaging of your mouth, review your medical history, and perform a thorough exam to evaluate your oral health. Based on what we find, Dr. Kessler creates a personalized treatment plan built around your goals.
1
Clear, Upfront Pricing.
Before any treatment begins, we walk you through your full plan and provide clear, transparent pricing along with a timeline of the steps ahead. No surprises and no guesswork.
2
Smile Design.
Next, we plan your new smile together. We help you choose the tooth shade and shape that suit you best and evaluate your bite so your new bridge looks and feels right for your face.
3
Implant Placement.
On your procedure appointment, we make sure you are comfortable first. Any damaged teeth are removed as needed, and the dental implants are placed with precision. We use advanced 3D scanning to plan a precise, comfortable fit for your bridge.
4
Healing and Aftercare.
Some tenderness in the first week is normal. We recommend soft foods, plenty of rest, and good oral hygiene as you heal. We will check in at scheduled follow-up visits to monitor your progress as the implants fuse with the bone.
5
Your Permanent Bridge.
Once your implants have fully integrated and healing is complete, we take new records and craft your final, custom bridge. After you are happy with the fit and look, we secure your permanent bridge for a smile designed to last.
6
Find the Right Treatment for You
Not sure which option fits your needs? If you are missing just one tooth, a single-tooth implant may be the answer. If you are missing most or all of your teeth in an arch, All-on-4 offers a permanent full-arch solution, while snap-in dentures secure a removable denture to implants for a confident fit. And if you need to rebuild your jawbone before treatment, bone grafting can create a strong foundation. Dr. Kessler will help you choose the right path at your consultation.
