Implant-Supported Bridges in Westminster, CO
When you’re missing several teeth in a row, an implant supported bridge offers the most natural-looking and functional replacement option available in modern dentistry. At Monarch Family Dental of Westminster, Dr. Jorge Rojas specializes in these advanced restorations that provide superior stability without compromising neighboring healthy teeth.
Unlike traditional bridges that require grinding down adjacent teeth, implant-supported bridges anchor to dental implants placed directly in your jawbone. This revolutionary approach preserves your natural tooth structure while providing exceptional strength and longevity.
How Implant-Supported Bridges Work?
An implant-supported bridge combines the proven technologies of dental implants and fixed bridges to create a permanent solution for multiple missing teeth. Unlike removable partial dentures or traditional tooth-supported bridges, this restoration is anchored directly to your jawbone through strategic implant placement.
The typical structure includes:
- Implants: Titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone that function as artificial tooth roots
- Abutments: Connector pieces that attach to the implants and support the bridge
- Bridge prosthesis: Custom-crafted replacement teeth that fill the gap and restore your smile
What makes this approach revolutionary is how it distributes force throughout the jawbone during biting and chewing, similar to natural teeth. This stimulation helps maintain bone density and prevent the deterioration that normally follows tooth loss.
At Monarch Family Dental of Westminster, Dr. Rojas carefully evaluates your specific situation to determine the optimal number and placement of implants needed to support your bridge. Most cases require at least two implants, though more complex restorations may utilize additional support points.
The Implant-Supported Bridge Process
At Monarch Family Dental of Westminster, creating your implant-supported bridge involves several carefully coordinated steps, each tailored to your specific needs and oral anatomy.
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
Your treatment begins with a thorough examination by Dr. Rojas, including 3D imaging to assess your bone structure and determine the ideal placement for your implants. We’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your oral health, and create a personalized treatment plan.
This planning phase is crucial for long-term success. We carefully consider factors such as:
- Available bone volume and density
- Spacing and alignment of surrounding teeth
- Bite forces and patterns
- Aesthetic considerations for a natural appearance
Our detailed approach ensures optimal function and aesthetics for your final restoration.
2. Implant Placement
During implant placement, Dr. Rojas uses advanced surgical guides to position the implants exactly where planned, ensuring proper alignment and angulation for your future bridge.
Depending on your specific situation, we may place:
- Two implants to support a 3-4 tooth bridge
- Three or more implants for longer spans
- Strategic implants at endpoints and midpoints for optimal support
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation options available for your comfort. Most patients are surprised at how manageable the process is, with minimal discomfort during recovery.
3. Healing and Integration
After implant placement, a healing period of approximately 3-6 months allows the implants to fully integrate with your jawbone—a process called osseointegration. During this time, we provide a temporary restoration to maintain aesthetics and function.
4. Custom Bridge Creation and Placement
For your custom dental bridge, our skilled lab technicians craft a prosthesis that perfectly matches the color, shape, and alignment of your natural teeth.
The final bridge is securely attached to the implants using either:
- Cement retention for a smooth emergence profile
- Screw retention for easier future maintenance
Dr. Rojas will determine the best attachment method based on your specific situation and long-term needs.
Benefits of Choosing an Implant-Supported Bridge
Patients who choose implant-supported bridges at Monarch Family Dental experience numerous advantages, such as preservation of natural teeth, bone preservation & facial structure, superior strength & stability, and longevity & value.
1. Preservation of Natural Teeth
Perhaps the most significant advantage is that implant bridges don’t require altering healthy adjacent teeth like traditional bridges do.
With implant support, your natural teeth remain intact and unaffected. This preservation approach aligns with modern dentistry’s focus on conservative treatment that maintains as much natural tooth structure as possible.
2. Bone Preservation and Facial Structure
When teeth are lost, the jawbone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This bone loss can lead to a sunken facial appearance and potential shifting of remaining teeth.
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping to:
- Maintain bone density and volume
- Preserve facial contours and appearance
- Prevent the aged look associated with bone loss
- Support proper jaw alignment and function
This preservation of bone structure represents a significant long-term health benefit beyond the immediate functional improvements.
3. Superior Strength and Stability
Implant-supported bridges provide exceptional stability that closely mimics natural teeth. The direct connection to your jawbone through osseointegrated implants creates a foundation that allows you to:
- Bite and chew with confidence
- Enjoy virtually any food without restrictions
- Speak clearly without concern about movement
- Forget that you even have a dental restoration
Many patients report that their supported implant bridge feels so natural that they no longer think about it during daily activities.
4. Longevity and Value
While the initial investment in an implant-supported bridge is typically higher than other options, the long-term value is compelling:
- Implants themselves often last a lifetime with proper care
- The bridge prosthesis typically lasts 15+ years
- Less need for adjustments or replacements
- Reduced risk of complications affecting adjacent teeth
- Prevention of bone loss that might require future treatments
When considering lifetime costs and benefits, implant bridges often represent the most economical choice, not to mention the significant quality-of-life advantages they provide.
We understand that cost can sometimes stand in the way of the care you need. That’s why Monarch Family Dental offers flexible financing options and personalized payment plans for convenience.
Are You a Candidate for an Implant-Supported Bridge?
Most adults missing multiple adjacent teeth are good candidates for implant-supported bridges. Ideal candidates typically have:
- Good general health without uncontrolled medical conditions
- Adequate jawbone density to support implants (or are willing to consider bone grafting)
- Healthy gum tissue free from active periodontal disease
- Good oral hygiene habits
- No smoking or willingness to quit during treatment
Even if you have some bone loss or other complicating factors, modern techniques often make implant bridges possible. During your consultation at Monarch Family Dental, Dr. Rojas will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if this solution is right for you or if preliminary treatments might be needed.
Explore Other Implant Options
If your case is different from implant-supported bridges, Monarch Family Dental offers several other solutions to restore your smile and function:
Single Tooth Implant — Ideal if you’re missing just one tooth and want a permanent, natural-looking replacement.
Snap-on Dentures — Great for patients who need a removable but secure option with an implant to replace missing teeth.
All-on-4 Dental Implants — Designed for those missing all teeth in one or both arches and want a fixed, full-arch solution.
Other restorative treatments if you’re exploring non-implant options:
Same-Day Dental Crown — Perfect for repairing a damaged or weakened tooth in a single visit.
Dental Fillings — Best for treating cavities and preventing further tooth decay.
Dentures & Partials — Suitable for patients missing several or all teeth who prefer a removable replacement (non-implant).
Root Canal — Recommended when infection or decay reaches the inner pulp but the tooth can still be saved.
Ready to Restore Your Complete Smile?
Take the first step toward a permanent solution for your missing teeth. Schedule your implant bridge consultation with Dr. Rojas at Monarch Family Dental of Westminster today. Call us at 303-920-4900 or book your appointment online to discover how implant-supported bridges can transform your smile and oral health.
PATIENT REVIEWS
HOURS
| Monday | 7:00am – 6:30pm |
| Tuesday | 7:00am – 6:30pm |
| Wednesday | 7:00am – 6:30pm |
| Thursday | 7:00am – 6:30pm |
| Friday | 7:00am – 5:00pm |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
