Dental implants are the best solution for replacing missing teeth. Because of their effectiveness, they are becoming increasingly popular. Implants not only replace the visible portion of the tooth, but replace the tooth’s root as well. When the tooth’s root is replaced, the jawbone is stimulated. In addition, the implant provides the crown or bridge with an incredibly strong and secure base. A common question patients have is if an implant is needed for every natural tooth which is missing. Because implants are so expensive, this can create challenges and even prohibit some patients from receiving treatment. One implant can actually be used to replace multiple missing teeth through an implant supported bridge.
Single Implant
Patients who are missing one tooth benefit from having a dental implant surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the mouth has healed, which typically takes a few months, the implant will actually fuse to the tissue around it, forming a strong and secure base. The last part of the procedure involves the dentist attaching a crown to the implant. This replaces the visible portion of tooth with an incredibly natural prosthetic tooth.
A dental implant can also be used to replace two missing teeth when they are located side-by-side. Similar to the single implant procedure, the implant will bond to the jawbone and the dentist will attach a two-part restoration. The first part of the restoration is the crown, and the other component is called a pontic. A pontic is an artificial tooth which attaches to the crown. This allows a single implant to support two missing teeth.
Two Implants
In cases where the patient is missing three or more consecutive teeth, the dentist can often use two dental implants. The dentist will strategically place an implant on both ends of the gap. The implants and crowns are able to support up to three pontics. This means two implants can be used to replace up to five missing teeth.
Four or More Dental Implants
When patients are missing all of their teeth in the upper or lower arch, the dentist can often use four dental implants as a treatment option. This procedure is called all-on-4 or an implant supported bridge. The dentist will strategically place four implants in specific locations in the jaw. They will typically use two implants towards the front of the mouth and two implants which are placed at an angle towards the back of the mouth. The implants are placed in areas of the jaw where there is especially thick and strong bone. The implants provide an incredibly strong and secure base for the bridge.
Patients should follow up with their dentist to determine if they are a good candidate for an implant supported bridge. Some patients prefer additional support. In this case, the dentist can use six or more implants to offer additional support.
Regardless of how many teeth a patient is missing, dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement solution. Work with a dentist to discuss how implants can be used to help restore the function and appearance of your smile.