Dental Implants As Supports: Q&A

After losing several teeth, you may be hesitant to have them replaced. After all, some dental appliances used for tooth replacement may slip in an uncomfortable and embarrassing manner as you eat or speak. However, there are methods designed to keep a tooth replacement device firmly in place.

Although a dental implant can be used to replace a single tooth, dental implants can also be used to secure appliances, such as dentures and dental bridges, in position. Here are a few questions and answers about dental implants used to support appliances for multiple teeth replacements:

How are dental implants used if all of the teeth in your palate are missing?

Dental implants can be used as supports for dentures. Some specialized dentures are designed with connectors on the portion of the dentures that rests on the gums. These connectors can attach to dental implants to hold the dentures in place.

Once connected, the dentures become secure, and there is no need to be concerned about the dentures moving. The connectors have to be manually released. Thus, you can still remove the dentures for daily cleaning, but until you remove them, they are firmly in position.

How do dental implants work with dental bridges?

When implants are used in conjunction with dental bridges, they act as supports for the bridge crowns. Conventional dental bridges contain two crowns on each end. The false teeth that will replace the missing teeth are suspended in the middle of a bridge between the crowns. When there are no natural teeth to which the bridge crowns can be bonded, dental implants can be used.

How long does it take to place the dental implants?

A dental implant can be installed during one dental visit. However, the implant generally takes two to four months to heal. During that time, the implant fuses with the jawbone and becomes stable enough to serve as a supportive device.  

How long will the supporting implants last?

Dental implants can last a lifetime. It is likely that your dental implants will remain in place even when the appliance that is being supported has to be replaced. Dentures usually last about five to seven years.  Dental bridges may require replacement after five to 15 years. 

If dental implants are installed to help with the restoration of multiple teeth, it is likely used in conjunction with another dental appliance. To learn how dental implants can be used in your dental restoration, visit a dentist like Davis R Troup DDS PA in your area.

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