Dr. Justin Deckard is an experienced implant dentist in Washington, DC. For his patients missing several teeth, he offers many options for replacing them. In the past, a dentist may typically replace multiple missing teeth with a partial denture or a fixed bridge.
However, over the years, dental implants have proven to be the best solution for missing teeth. Dr. Deckard offers treatments that use multiple dental implants in his Washington, DC, office.
Multiple dental implants can securely hold partial dentures and dental bridges. They are better for oral health, prevent jaw bone loss, and require less maintenance. Your new teeth will look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Multiple Dental Implants in Washington, DC
Dental implants are lasting restorations with many uses in dentistry. Implants replace single missing teeth by securing crowns. Patients with multiple missing teeth benefit from implant-secured bridges or dentures. We place dental implants in the jaw bone under the gums to act as replacement tooth roots. This way, our patients can have a more functional and balanced smile.
Implant-Supported Fixed Bridge
A dental bridge has two crowns on each end and false teeth (the pontics) between them. Both traditional and implant-supported bridges are fixed dental restorations. They can both replace two or more missing teeth in a row. Although a conventional bridge is a successful treatment, there are many benefits to choosing an implant-supported bridge.
Traditional dental bridges can replace one or more consecutive missing teeth. A significant disadvantage to choosing a bridge is that your dentist must file down two teeth on either side of the gap to accommodate the bridgework. Essentially, you are replacing missing teeth by damaging two more teeth. Also, a traditional fixed bridge does not replace the teeth at the root.
The dentist can permanently secure an implant-supported dental bridge without damaging healthy remaining teeth. After Dr. Deckard surgically places at least two implant posts in the jawbone, he securely attaches a custom dental bridge to them.
The most significant advantage of using this type of restoration to replace multiple missing teeth is that dental implants will act as tooth roots, preventing bone loss in the jaw and creating structural support for the jaw. Also, an implant-supported bridge does not require healthy teeth to be filed down.
Implant-Supported Partial Denture
A partial denture is a custom-made dental restoration used when a patient misses several teeth in various locations along a tooth arch. Dentists often use this prosthesis when the patient still has some healthy teeth and needs to fill in several missing teeth.
Traditionally, a partial is removable and will only replace the crowns of the missing teeth. The false teeth are connected to a gum-colored base. Metal clips from this base will help hold it in place in the mouth. The disadvantage to using a traditional partial is the metal clips are sometimes visible when the patient smiles, and it does not replace the teeth at the root.
An implant-supported partial denture offers more advantages than a traditional partial. Implant-secured partials allow patients to speak, bite, and chew better without visible metal clasps. Other benefits include preventing bone loss in the jaw because the implants replace the teeth at the root, and there are fewer food restrictions since dental implants are more durable.
Dr. Deckard will surgically place two or more implants at his Washington, DC, dentist’s office. After about three to six months of healing, he will attach a custom-made partial denture.
FAQs Multiple Dental Implants in Washington, DC
Do you have questions about treatment with multiple dental implants? Read answers to these commonly asked questions:
Can you have multiple dental implants next to each other?
We will adequately space implants adjacent to dental bridges and dentures. We ensure at least 3 mm between each implant, as the implants require support from the gums and cannot overlap.
How painful are implant dentures?
You will not feel pain as we place the dental implants; we numb your mouth for oral surgery. Additionally, you will not feel pain when we attach the denture to your implants. Once the anesthetic from surgery wears off, you can take prescribed pain medication. You can also use ice packs to reduce swelling.
How much jawbone will I need for my dental implants?
Dental implants require at least 1 mm of jaw bone to support them. If you lack natural jaw bone, we recommend bone grafting or sinus augmentation treatment.
Can you eat normally with implant dentures?
Yes, once you are used to your new dentures, you can eat with fewer dietary restrictions than traditional ones. Because dental implants secure dentures like artificial tooth roots, you can eat hard and crunchy foods. After the implants heal fully and you receive your permanent dentures, you can eat the foods you love without your dentures slipping.
Do implant bridges last longer than traditional dental bridges?
Yes, implant-secured dental bridges can last longer than traditional bridges. A conventional dental bridge uses crowns for support, but the false teeth lay on the gums. Dental implants support bridges at the root, meaning implant bridges can last twice as long as traditional dental bridges. Implant-secured bridges can last up to 20 years.
Are implant restorations worth it?
While implant treatment will take longer than traditional restorative treatments, implant-secured restorations are worth it. Implant-supported restorations last much longer than traditional or removable options. Dental implants also act with functionality, meaning implant restorations make it simpler to eat and speak. Implants are a worthy investment for patients with multiple missing teeth.
Request a Dental Consultation
Are you missing multiple permanent teeth? Are you interested in dental implant restorations? Contact D.C. Precision Dentistry today at (202) 851-7554. You may also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Deckard online. Let us know if you have any questions about implant bridges and dentures. We’re here to help.