Replacing Multiple Teeth
Overview
When multiple teeth are missing, treatment options for replacement include dental implant-supported crowns and bridges, "long span" bridges supported by natural teeth, and removable partial dentures. Implant-supported teeth are the treatment of choice, and have become the standard of care in dentistry today. "Long span" bridges supported by natural teeth generally fail over time due to the forces of chewing. Decay or fracture of the supporting teeth is common, and may result in loss of the teeth. The natural teeth have to be ground down in order for the bridge to be cemented in place. Oftentimes, the nerves of the teeth die and root canal treatment becomes necessary. With removable partial dentures, clasps are hooked onto the supporting natural teeth. Over time, the pressure of chewing rocks these teeth and can lead to bone loss and extraction. Fortunately, implant-supported crowns and bridges are "self-contained" and do not damage the adjacent natural teeth in any way. The implant teeth will look and feel just like natural teeth, and are the most conservative, predictable and long-lasting treatment option.
Advantages of multiple implant-supported crowns include:
• Implant teeth do not decay.
• Implant teeth do not require root canals.
• Adjacent natural teeth are not ground down or loosened by denture clasps.
• Implant teeth look, feel and function just like natural teeth.
• Implant teeth have a greater than 95% success rate.
• Implant teeth are the most conservative and predictable long term solution.
• Implant teeth preserve the jawbone
• Implant teeth are more stable than removable dentures
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