Fixed-Fixed implant bridge

An implant bridge offers a multitude of significant benefits that make it a superior choice for replacing multiple missing teeth.1 One of the primary advantages is the exceptional stability and security it provides.2 Unlike traditional bridges that rely on neighboring healthy teeth for support, an implant-retained bridge is anchored directly into the jawbone, eliminating the need to file down healthy teeth.3 This direct bone integration prevents the bridge from shifting or becoming loose, offering a level of confidence and comfort that is unmatched by removable dentures.4

Furthermore, these bridges play a crucial role in preserving jawbone health.5 When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can begin to resorb, or shrink, over time due to a lack of stimulation.6 Dental implants, however, stimulate the bone just like natural tooth roots, which helps to prevent this bone loss and maintain the integrity of your facial structure.7 This not only keeps your facial profile from looking sunken but also ensures a stable foundation for the bridge for many years to come.8 With proper care, an implant-retained bridge is a durable, long-lasting solution that restores full function, allowing you to eat all your favourite foods and speak clearly without worry.9

While typically one implant replaces one tooth, it's sometimes possible to use a single dental implant to support a bridge that replaces two missing teeth. This is known as a cantilever bridge. The implant is placed at one end of the gap, and the bridge is designed to have the second tooth "cantilevered" or suspended from it.

The decision to use a cantilever bridge is not taken lightly and depends on several key factors. First, the implant must be placed in an area of exceptional bone health and volume. The bone must be dense and robust enough to handle the extra forces of supporting two teeth instead of one. Second, the implant's position is critical. It must be placed correctly to ensure the implant bridge is stable and the forces are distributed properly. Finally, the occlusion, or the way your teeth come together when you bite, is a major consideration. Cantilever bridges are generally best suited for areas with lighter chewing forces, such as the front teeth. Placing one in a high-force area like the molars would likely lead to implant failure. A thorough assessment by your dentist or surgeon is essential to determine if this solution is right for you.