Missing teeth can be more than just an inconvenience: They affect the way you chew, talk, and the aesthetics of your smile. Fortunately, there are a number of options that modern dentistry offers to improve your quality of life by restoring the form and functionality of your teeth.
One of those solutions are dental hybrid bridges, a fixed dental prosthesis that combine the benefits of dental implants with traditional removable dentures. But are they the best choice for you? In this blog post, we’ll break down what dental hybrid bridges are, what they do, and whether they’re the right fix for you.
What Are Dental Hybrid Bridges?
Dental hybrid bridges are a type of dental prostheses designed for people who are missing most or all of their natural teeth. They are also known as implant-supported hybrid dentures, because that’s exactly what they are! Hybrid bridges are fixed to your jaw with implants, unlike removable dentures. They can only be removed by a dentist when necessary, such as for cleaning or adjustments.
How Do Dental Hybrid Bridges Work?
The prostheses are fabricated on a metal alloy framework, using an acrylic resin denture base with artificial teeth made of porcelain. These hybrid dentures are then fixed to implants that are surgically placed in your jaw with screw retention.
Dental Hybrid Bridges: The Procedure
There are several steps involved in the process of getting a dental hybrid bridge. This is what the process of getting dental hybrid bridges typically looks like:
- Initial consultation: The patient undergoes thorough examination so that the dentist can create a personalized treatment plan and establish a timeline
- Implant placement: Titanium dental implants are placed into the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for the prosthesis.
- Implant healing: The patient is required to heal for several months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. Typically, temporary prostheses are provided to the patient to maintain functionality and aesthetics in the meantime.
- Abutment placement: Abutments, which are essentially connector pieces, are attached to the implants after they have successfully healed. These abutments support the hybrid prosthesis after they are fabricated.
- Prosthesis fabrication and placement: A custom-fit hybrid prosthesis is made that matches the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth. The prosthesis is then fabricated in a dental lab and attached to the abutments.
- Follow up sessions: To monitor the healing process, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure the prosthesis fits and functions correctly, regular follow up appointments are booked with the dentist.
Learn more about implant-supported hybrid dentures here.
The Benefits of Dental Hybrid Bridges
Hybrid dental bridges can offer a lot of benefits depending on the specifics of your case and compared to other teeth replacement options:
- Enhanced aesthetics: They are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, giving you a natural-looking smile.
- Comfort and stability: Unlike removable dentures, which often slip and sometimes require adhesives to, hybrid bridges are fixed in place.
- Restored functionality: Hybrid bridges improve overall oral function by helping you speak and chew with ease.
- Bone preservation: Dental implants help prevent bone loss that happens when teeth are missing.
- Longevity: While hybrid bridges may have a higher upfront cost than dentures, they are a more permanent solution, reducing the need for frequent replacements or adjustments.
Do You Need Dental Hybrid Bridges?
Dental hybrid bridges are a great long-lasting solution for you if you’re missing the majority or all of your natural teeth. If you’re looking for the kind of comfort, stability, and natural look that are hard to get with traditional dentures, getting hybrid dentures may be the best choice for you.
Remember: It’s still important to check with a dentist before making a decision! If you’re considering dental hybrid bridges or would like to learn more, please Contact Us or Request a Quote to send us your dental inquiry, and we’ll get back to you.
