Multiple Missing Teeth

If you are missing more than one tooth, implant can help you. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

Basically when several teeth missing, there are three options:
- a traditional tooth supported bridge
- a removable partial denture
- an implant supported bridge

In this situation the benefits of implant supported teeth are obvious. A removable prosthesis, such as a partial denture, actually accelerates the bone resorption process, resulting in more rapid bone deterioration. In addition, the clasps which hold the partial denture in place put extreme pressure on the natural teeth they hook onto, loosening them and in many cases, eventually leading to the loss of those teeth. Most patients with partial dentures state that they are uncomfortable and that they rarely wear them.

The advantages of replacing multiple missing teeth with implant supported bridges include the following:
- look feel and function like natural teeth
- much more comfortable and stable than partial dentures
- natural biting and chewing capacity is restored
- virtually stop the bone resorption process (deterioration)
- the integrity of the facial structures is maintained
- adjacent natural teeth are not compromised (ground down into peg shapes or loosened)

In a long term, implants are aesthetic, functional and comfortable. Gums and bone can recede around a fixed bridge or removable partial denture, leaving a visible defect. Resorbed bone beneath bridges or removable partial dentures can lead to a collapsed, unattractive smile. The cement holding bridges in place can wash out, allowing bacteria to decay teeth that anchor the bridge. In addition, removable partial dentures can move around in the mouth and reduce your ability to eat certain foods.