Missing teeth can have a significant impact on both your appearance and your confidence. Fortunately, we have options available to restore your smile, and dental implants offer an ideal solution. One of the best ways to achieve a full and beautiful smile is with our implant-supported bridges in Silver Spring, MD.  

If you want implant-supported bridges, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Adrian Cummins. A consultation with Dr. Cummins is the ideal opportunity to discuss any concerns or goals for your oral health. Cummins Dental Group is the trusted choice for dental care in the area, with years of experience, high-quality technology, and a dedication to patient comfort. Don’t put off your dental needs any longer – contact us today! Discover how we can help you achieve your dream smile.

The Benefits of Implant-Supported Bridges

Today we’ll explore the benefits of implant-supported bridges and why they may be the perfect choice for you. 

1) Durability: Implant-supported bridges are designed to last many years since they anchor into the jawbone rather than relying on surrounding teeth for support. By preventing bone loss, they provide better resistance to wear and tear over time. Additionally, implant-supported bridges do not require the same level of maintenance as traditional bridges since the structure is more stable.

2) Comfort: Implant-supported bridges feel natural. Since the prosthetics are attached to implants rather than gum tissue, there is less chance of slipping or moving around while eating or talking. This stability eliminates the discomfort and irritation associated with dentures, leading to greater overall comfort.

3) Improved Appearance: The most significant advantage of an implant-supported bridge is that they look and feel like natural teeth. Aesthetically, the bridges blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a more naturally pleasing appearance.

4) Better Oral Health: Missing teeth can result in teeth shifting or tilting, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. By replacing missing teeth with an implant-supported bridge, you are helping to maintain overall oral health. Keeping your natural teeth in the same position as they were before tooth loss is critical as it allows for better chewing, speech, and smile.

5) Increased Confidence: When you have missing teeth, you may feel embarrassed or self-conscious in certain social situations, avoiding group conversations or smiling for fear of what others might think. With implant-supported bridges, you can restore your natural-looking smile, allowing you to live confidently and proudly smile.

What is the Process?

These are the typical steps involved with implant-supported bridge placement. 

Consultation and examination

The first step in the implant-supported bridge placement process is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cummins. During the consultation, he will examine your teeth and jawbone to determine if implant-supported bridges are the right treatment option for you. This consultation may include taking x-rays and discussing your medical history and oral hygiene habits.

Planning and preparation

If we recommend implant-supported bridges, Dr. Cummins will create a personalized treatment plan for you. This plan may involve making a 3D model of your teeth and jawbone to determine the precise location of the implants. Before the placement, you must undergo thorough teeth cleaning to prevent bacterial infection.

Implant placement

The next step is to place the implants into the jawbone. Dr. Cummins may use local anesthesia to numb the area before making an incision in the gum tissue. We then place the implant into the jawbone, and the gums are sutured closed. You will need to wait several weeks for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration.

Abutment placement

Once osseointegration has occurred, Dr. Cummins can attach an abutment to the implant. This abutment is the component that connects the implant to the bridge. The abutment is placed through the gum tissue and allowed to heal for a few weeks.

Bridge placement

The final step is to place the bridge onto the abutments. Your dentist will ensure the bridge fits correctly and feels comfortable in your mouth. Once the bridge is secured, you can enjoy your restored smile and improved functionality.

What is Recovery Like?

If you’re considering getting an implant-supported bridge, you’re likely curious about the recovery process. Since dental implants involve a surgical procedure, a healing period will occur afterward. We’ll go over what you can expect during the recovery period after getting implant-supported bridges placed by the expert team at Cummins Dental Group.

Post-Op Pain Management

After the procedure, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding. But don’t worry. Our expert team will prescribe medications to help manage pain and discomfort, such as over-the-counter analgesics or prescription-strength painkillers. It’s essential to follow the instructions and avoid taking medications that could interfere with pain medications or delay healing.

Oral Hygiene

It would be best to continue brushing your teeth after the procedure, but be gentle and avoid the surgical area. You may want to rinse your mouth with salt water to kill bacteria that could cause infections. Avoid flossing around implants during the first few days of recovery to give your mouth time to heal.

Diet Restrictions

It would be best to focus on eating soft, nutrient-rich foods during the first few days of recovery. Stick to items like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soup, and smoothies to avoid injuring the surgical area. Avoid crunchy foods like nuts, chips, popcorn, spicy foods, or acidic or carbonated drinks that could irritate your gums.

Rest and Recovery

After the procedure, it’s essential to take it easy and avoid physically strenuous activities for the first 48 hours after the procedure. Plan to take some time off from work or other activities and rest at home. Keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling, and ice packs can also be helpful during the first few days.

After-Care Visits

We’ll schedule several follow-up visits to ensure your implants heal properly. During these visits, we’ll check the healing progress and answer any questions you have about the recovery process. Typically, it takes a few months for your dental implants to integrate with your jawbone. Still, we’ll provide a timeline for when you can expect to receive your permanent implant-supported bridge.

Will I Need to Replace the Implant-Supported Bridge in the Future?

The longevity of an implant-supported bridge depends on various factors, including your oral hygiene habits, overall health, and the quality of the dental implants and bridge materials used. However, it’s essential to be aware that dental restorations, including implant-supported bridges, are not indestructible and may require maintenance or replacement over time.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with diligent oral hygiene practices at home, will help Dr. Cummins monitor the condition of your implant-supported bridge and address any issues promptly. If any problems are detected, early intervention can often prevent the need for a complete replacement.

Implant-Supported Bridges in Silver Spring, MD 

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your teeth or gums? Look no further than Cummins Dental Group, where Dr. Adrian Cummins is eager to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

If you’re looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth, then implants supported bridges may be the perfect choice for you. They offer the benefits of improved oral health, comfort, durability, and appearance, which can enhance your confidence and overall quality of life. 

Implant-supported bridges offer a long-lasting and reliable solution for missing teeth. At Cummins Dental Group, we prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the implant-supported bridge placement process, ensuring that you achieve the best possible outcome.

Don’t wait another day to restore your smile – make an appointment with us today and discover the benefits of implant-supported bridges for yourself! We also offer general dentistry, dental cleanings, periodontal treatments, and more. We look forward to seeing you soon!