Implant bridge: replacing several missing teeth
When two or more teeth next to each other are missing, a dentist may discuss a bridge held by implants. Here is what that involves, in plain language.
What an implant bridge is
An implant-supported bridge is a row of replacement teeth joined together and held in place by implants rather than by natural teeth. For example, three missing teeth in a row might be replaced by a three-tooth bridge on two implants. The number of implants and teeth depends on the space, the bone and the bite, and the dentist plans it from X-rays and often a 3D scan.
The bridge is usually fixed, which means it is not taken out at home. It is cleaned in place, with brushes and floss designed to reach under it, and checked at review appointments.
How it differs from a conventional bridge
A conventional bridge is held by crowns on the natural teeth either side of the gap. Those teeth are prepared, which means some of their surface is removed. An implant bridge is held by implants placed in the gap, so the neighbouring teeth are not involved in supporting it.
Neither option suits everyone. A conventional bridge is often quicker, because there is no healing period for implants. An implant bridge involves surgery and months of healing. Which is suitable depends on the condition of the neighbouring teeth, the bone, your health and your preferences, and that is a conversation for your dentist. Our guide comparing implants, bridges and dentures sets out the differences between the treatments.
Planning a multi-tooth case
Replacing several teeth usually needs more planning than a single tooth. The dentist looks at where the bone is thickest, where nerves and sinuses sit, how the opposite teeth bite, and how the gum will look across the span. Some practices use digital planning and a surgical guide, a template that helps place the implants in the planned positions.
If teeth are still present but failing, the plan may include removing them, and possibly adding bone, before the implants go in. That is one reason multi-tooth treatment can take longer than a single implant.
Questions worth asking
- How many implants does the plan use, and why that number?
- Is the bridge fixed or removable, and how is it cleaned?
- What will I wear while the implants heal?
- What happens if one implant does not settle as planned?
- Are the laboratory, the abutments and the final bridge all in the quote?
What influences the cost
We do not publish prices. The practice that assesses you gives you a treatment plan and a quote for your case. These are the factors that usually make the difference:
- The number of implants and the number of teeth in the bridge.
- Extractions and any bone grafting before placement.
- Planning imaging and, where used, a surgical guide.
- The bridge material and laboratory work.
- The temporary teeth worn during healing.
- Sedation or theatre fees, if used.
- The number of appointments over the course of treatment.
- What your medical aid funds for each stage.
Our guide to what influences a dental implant quote explains how to read an itemised plan.
Frequently asked questions
Does every missing tooth need its own implant?
Not necessarily. A bridge can span a gap using fewer implants than teeth. The number is a clinical decision based on the bone, the span and the bite.
Is an implant bridge removable?
Usually not. Most implant bridges are fixed and cleaned in place. A removable option exists in the form of implant-supported dentures.
Which is quicker, an implant bridge or a conventional bridge?
A conventional bridge is usually quicker, because there is no healing period for implants. Speed is only one factor; a dentist will discuss the others.
Can you recommend a practice for an implant bridge?
No. We do not recommend, rank or book practitioners. Start with your own dentist, who can assess you or refer you on.