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REPLACE ALL TEETH
When all teeth are missing or in such
condition that they need to be replaced, a fixed bridge
anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution.
Before dental implants, there were no
fixed solution available for people who lost all their
teeth. Today, it is possible to replace a full jaw with
dental implants and a fixed bridge that results in a
permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.
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Treatment procedure:
The treatment procedure and number of visits
is largely dependent on the specific conditions. But all in
all, 8-10 visits should be enough to have a fixed bridge installed.
Most patients report that they were much more comfortable
following the procedure than they had anticipated.
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1. Before the procedure
The dentist determines what needs to be
done and prepares both himself and the patient for the
coming treatment procedure.
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2. Installing the implants
The first step is installing dental implants
to replace the lost tooth roots. In this case, five
implants are used. Temporary teeth are attached that
enable you to eat and function like normal while waiting
for the permanent bridge to be installed.
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3. Attaching the bridge
The final bridge is securely installed
on top of the implants. With a full jaw replacement
like this, it normally takes 2-3 visits to have the
bridge completely attached.
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4. End result
Your new teeth should be hard to tell
from natural both for you and others. People
who have had traditional dentures before getting a fixed
bridge often describe this as an overwhelming and very
positive experience.
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Alternatives to a fixed bridge :
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Removable, implant anchored overdenture
An alternative to a fixed bridge is a
removable overdenture, which is anchored on implants.
The old fashioned denture has many disadvantages and
should be avoided if possible.
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A removable full denture that is connected
to either a ball or bar attachment, which in turn is
anchored on two or more implants in the front part of
the jaw.
The implants help keep the denture in
place and provide better function and comfort. Cost
is usually the reason why this solution is chosen over
a fixed bridge although the end result cant
be compared.
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Removable full denture
A denture that is loosely placed on top
of the gum to cover the lost teeth. This alternative
has no real advantages except for its low price
and easy installation.
The disadvantages are many: discomfort
in eating, poor esthetics, affected speech, and sore
gums from denture movement. Moreover, a full denture
placed in the upper jaw severely reduces the sense of
taste.
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