When more than one tooth is missing, there are three common treatment options:
- A traditional tooth supported bridge
- A removable partial denture
- An implant supported bridge
In this situation the benefits of implant supported teeth are even more obvious.
A removable partial denture actually accelerates the bone resorption process in areas without teeth, resulting in more rapid bone atrophy (deterioration). In addition, the clasps which hold the partial denture in place put extreme pressure on the underlying gums and natural teeth they hook onto. This weakens the jawbone and loosens the teeth and often leads to additional tooth loss. Many patients with partial dentures state that they are unsightly, painful and that they rarely wear them.
The advantages of replacing multiple missing teeth with implant supported bridges include:
- They look, feel and function like natural teeth
- They are much more comfortable and stable than partial dentures
- Natural biting and chewing capacity is restored
- Adjacent natural teeth are not compromised (ground down into peg shapes or loosened)
- Dental implants virtually stop the bone resorption process (deterioration)
- The integrity of the facial structures are maintained (no sagging jaw line)
