Guide to Multiple Implants
The information in the Guide to Multiple Implants provides a comprehensive explanation of the consequences of missing teeth, a comparison of dental implants and bridges, and a detailed description of implant procedures. We encourage you to review all of the pages to help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.
Preferred Method of Tooth Replacement
Dental implant treatment is considered standard of care and is usually the preferred method of tooth replacement. Numerous studies in the scientific literature demonstrate that the long-term success of dental implant-supported replacement teeth is much better than tooth-supported bridges. Dentists and dental specialists have successfully utilized this treatment modality to restore normal function, speech, appearance, and health to people who are missing multiple teeth – even in challenging situations.
Some of the benefits of dental implant treatment for replacement of multiple missing teeth include:
- Dental implants preserve the bone by replacing the missing tooth roots.
- Dental implant restorations protect the adjacent natural teeth, as opposed to compromising them.
- Replacement teeth will maintain overall bite and function of the teeth and jaw joints.
- Overall appearance is improved by restoring a natural-looking smile with replacement teeth.
- Replacing missing teeth with dental implant restorations prevents bite collapse and malpositioning of the teeth.
The photos below, courtesy of Dr. Dennis Shanelec, demonstrate how dental implants can be used to replace multiple missing teeth.
Multiple Missing Anterior Teeth:
The tooth-supported bridge is failing
and needs to be replaced
Failed root canal treated teeth supporting the bridge.
Two dental implants replaced the failed teeth.
The new bridge is supported by
two dental implants.
Multiple Missing Posterior Teeth:
The teeth supporting this bridge
were severely decayed.
Failed, severely decayed teeth that
once supported a bridge.
Three dental implants replaced the
failed natural teeth.
The three new replacement teeth are individual crowns on dental implants.