Implant bridge: fixed tooth replacement on implants

An implant bridge is a fixed tooth replacement that is anchored not on your own teeth but on two or more implants. It is particularly suitable when several adjacent teeth are missing. The healthy neighbouring teeth do not need to be ground down for this.

Implants are artificial tooth roots that heal into the jawbone. How they are constructed and which other options are available is explained on our page on dental implants in Küsnacht. Here, we look at when an implant bridge makes sense and how treatment works at our practice.

When does an implant bridge make sense?

If several teeth in a row are missing, the alternative would be either to restore each gap with its own implant or to attach a conventional bridge to the neighbouring teeth. The implant bridge sits between the two: a few implants support a bridge that also replaces the teeth in between.

Even in a toothless jaw, a bridge on several implants can provide a fixed tooth replacement instead of a removable denture. We plan such comprehensive restorations as part of a full mouth reconstruction.

Requirements and alternatives

For the implants to heal in securely, there needs to be enough jawbone and the gums must be free of inflammation. We treat any existing periodontitis beforehand. If there is not enough bone, bone augmentation may be necessary, which extends the treatment. Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes or certain medications can make healing more difficult.

An implant bridge is not the best choice for everyone. If the neighbouring teeth need crowns anyway, a conventional bridge may make more sense; find out more on our page on crowns and bridges. Removable partial or full dentures are also an option. They involve less effort, but do not sit as firmly. You will find a detailed comparison in our guide Dental implant or bridge.

Materials: implant and bridge

When it comes to materials, it is worth distinguishing between the implant and the bridge. The implants themselves are usually made of titanium. Titanium has a proven track record over decades and is generally very well tolerated; genuine titanium allergies are rare. Once the implant has been placed, the bone grows together with its surface (osseointegration).

If you would prefer a metal-free solution, you can talk to us about ceramic implants made of zirconia. However, they have been clinically tested for a shorter time than titanium and are not suitable for every situation. The bridge that sits on the implants is custom-made. We choose the material to suit your situation.

How we work at our practice

• Consultation and examination: We examine your teeth, gums and bone, discuss your wishes and also show you the alternatives.
• Digital 3D planning: Using a three-dimensional X-ray (CBCT) and an intraoral scan, we plan the number, position and angle of the implants. Our guide 3D scanning in dentistry explains how this works.
• Implant placement: The implants are placed according to this plan using a surgical guide, usually under local anaesthesia. We mainly use implants from Straumann, as well as Thommen, and CAMLOG on request.
• Healing: The implants usually fuse with the bone within several weeks to a few months; after bone augmentation, it takes longer. During this time, you receive a temporary restoration if needed.
• Final bridge: After the healing period, the bridge is made at our partner laboratory StarDent or another specialised laboratory, and we then fit it.

Care and follow-up

Implants cannot get tooth decay, but plaque can cause inflammation of the surrounding tissue. In the worst case, this peri-implantitis can lead to the loss of an implant. As well as brushing your teeth, it is therefore important to clean under the bridge and around the implants, for example with interdental brushes. We will show you how best to do this with your bridge.

Regular check-ups and professional teeth cleaning at our practice are just as important. This allows problems to be detected and treated early.

Frequently asked questions

How many implants does an implant bridge need?

At least two. The exact number depends on how many teeth are being replaced, how much bone is available and how much load the bridge bears when you chew. We decide this together with you during the 3D planning.

Is the treatment painful?

The implants are placed under local anaesthesia, so you usually feel nothing during the procedure. Afterwards, a few days of swelling and a feeling of pressure are normal. If you are anxious about the treatment, it can also be carried out with nitrous oxide on request. Find out more on our page for anxious patients.

How long does an implant bridge last?

With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, an implant bridge can last for many years. There is no guarantee: smoking, periodontitis and poor care increase the risk of complications.

How much does an implant bridge cost?

The costs depend on the number of implants, any bone augmentation and the size of the bridge. On request, we can prepare a cost estimate for you in advance, which you can also submit to your insurer. You can find our rates under tariff point values.

Would you like to know whether an implant bridge is right for you? Book a consultation online at our practice on Seestrasse in Küsnacht.