Implant Bridges

Dental Exams

Types of Full-Arch Restorations

As specialists in prosthodontics, we offer full-arch restorations designed to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile. The type of restoration you receive depends on your desired results and individual situation. Common full-arch restorations include:

 

    • Removable Dentures: Most removable dentures consist of false teeth set in a flesh-colored acrylic base. This removable appliance may be a good solution if you do not have enough bone in the jaw to support dental implants.

    • Implant-Supported Overdentures: This restoration is similar in appearance to a removable denture. However, instead of resting on the gum tissue, we utilize a series of implants for support. The implants improve the comfort, security, and longevity of your appliance.

    • Implant Bridge: This restoration is typically made from porcelain or some other type of ceramic material. Porcelain allows us to replicate the appearance of your natural teeth while providing the strength you need to support your bite force.

    • All-on-4® Treatment Concept: This appliance is a type of implant bridge that, as the name suggests, only relies on four dental implants per arch. Other fixed bridges require anywhere from six to eight implants for support.

The Implant Process

The implant process begins with your consultation appointment. Dr. Flores will review your possible treatment options and perform a comprehensive examination to ensure that implants are right for you.

Once we determine that implants are appropriate, we can schedule your first surgery. During this procedure, we will make several incisions in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. Next, we will place your series of implants. The number of implants you receive depends on the type of restoration and the amount of bone in the jaw.

After your first surgery, the implants and your jawbone should fuse during the process of osseointegration. This process may take anywhere from six months to over a year depending on the number of implants and the status of your bone. Osseointegration is integral to the success of your implants.

We cannot place your complete fixed bridge until osseointegration is complete. In the meantime, you will receive a temporary restoration to protect your implants and restore your ability to properly chew and speak. Once your final bridge is ready, we will remove the temporary and attach the ceramic restoration to your implant posts.

Implant Bridge Vs. Removable Dentures

Implant bridges have some benefits over removable dentures. Because the restoration is supported by implants, your implant bridge will look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth. Unlike a removable denture, your new teeth will never slip or irritate you while eating, chewing, or speaking.

Traditional dentures also need to be replaced, repaired, or relined every five to seven years. Your implants should last for several decades. With the proper care and maintenance, your new teeth may even last a lifetime!

Schedule Your Consultation

If you would like to learn more about our implant solutions, we are happy to help. Call (904) 864-2222 to schedule your consultation appointment today!