A bridge is another way to solve the missing-tooth problem. But two advantages of an implant over a bridge are that the teeth next to the space aren't affected with an implant as they are in the preparation for a bridge. Also, the implant helps stop the ongoing bone loss that occurs once a tooth has been lost.

Placing a dental implant after a tooth's been lost can prevent a chain reaction of problems that could affect the entire mouth. Teeth need each other for support. When a tooth is lost, it changes the biting forces on the teeth next to the space, causing them to shift. When a tooth no longer has anything to chew against, it begins to extrude out of the socket. You can eventually end up losing that tooth, as well. As your bite changes, it becomes increasingly difficult to chew your food, possibly damaging your jaw-joint, the TMJ.

A missing tooth really changes a person's smile, but a dental implant can replace the missing tooth and greatly improve your smile!

Upper and Lower Denture Implants

Occasionally, a patient just isn't able to comfortably wear a denture. He may complain of constant pain or a persistent "gaggy" feeling. Or he might say his dentures just don't stay in place.
Simply put, for these people, the transition from their own teeth to a denture just never worked out.

If you have a lower denture, you probably know how hard it can be to eat comfortably. When lower teeth are lost, the bone in the jaw continually recedes. Even worse, there are nerves passing through these holes in the jaw that can end up on the surface of the bone. If this happens, there is a great deal of pain when you bite down.

Fortunately, it's usually possible to place implants into the upper and lower jaw. In such cases, implants may be the answer. Dental implants are small titanium cylinders that are surgically inserted into the bone of the jaw to replace the roots of missing teeth. Bone in the jaw is continually lost once teeth have been removed. Implants help to stabilize the bone.

There are several ways to use implants on the jaws to replace a denture. One way is with a modified denture that's open on the palate. It clips to a bar that connects the implants. You can remove this device for cleaning by yourself at home. Another option is an implant bridge. It may be cemented in, or held in place by screws.

Securing your teeth with dental implants can make a world of difference. You can eat, talk, laugh and smile with confidence.

Benefits of Implant Supported Bridge or Denture

• Helps to maintain integrity of facial structures by helping to preserve the remaining bone.

• Restores lost lip support and therefore can minimize the appearance wrinkles

• Option of leaving the roof of the mouth uncovered

• Eliminates the need for adhesive and reduces the chance of pain from ill-fitting dentures

• Increased stability restores natural chewing capacity and helps to improve speech.