If you are missing more than one tooth, placing multiple implants is the best choice. However, for many of our patients, placing several implants may not be possible either due to severe bone loss or even due to financial reasons -- an implant supported bridge is a great solution. Unlike traditional bridges or removable partial dentures, an implant-supported bridge stays secure and strong, and won’t cause any problems for your adjacent healthy teeth. Implant-supported bridges help preserve the bone density in the area, but also provides comfort to our patients. If you are missing all your teeth in the upper or lower jaw and currently use a removable full denture, then an implant-supported denture could be the right solution for you. Unlike removable full dentures which can fit poorly, cause gum irritation and pain from exposed nerves, implant-supported bridges or dentures virtually eliminate slipping and movement. These implant-supported dentures can be made to be permanently fixed and immovable, or can be made to snap on and off. You will be able to laugh and speak with confidence, and enjoy your favorite foods with ease.

Are dental implants right for you?

A good candidate for implants should have healthy gums, enough bone to anchor the implants into the jaw, as well as committing to a continuing practice of excellent oral hygiene care. With the high success of dental implants today, most people are good candidates for dental implants, with a few exceptions with special cases.

• Smoking - While smoking reduces the success of dental implants, it is not an absolute contraindication. However, the risk of failure for smokers is increased two-fold as compared to non-smokers. Thus, while the implant may be successfully placed if you continue smoking, we strongly recommend all our patients to quit smoking to ensure the longevity of your dental implant.
• Diabetes - High blood glucose levels often leads to a weakened immune system. People with uncontrolled diabetes can more easily get an infection and have a longer healing time, therefore greatly affecting the long-term success of implants. If your diabetic condition is controlled, you can have implants.
• Osteoporosis - some medications for osteoporosis may prolong bone healing and in some rare cases may cause bone necrosis. We may need to consult with your physician.

If you don’t fall into any of the categories above, then you may be a good candidate for dental implants. However, regardless of your health condition, age, smoking habits, it is important to remember that good oral hygiene is essential to the success of your implant.