Case 10 – Fixed Implant Bridges

If you are missing or you may be losing many of your teeth, and you would like to replace them with something that is the closest to your natural teeth, then the fixed implant bridge is your solution. There are basically two types of materials available. One is made of porcelain fused to metal and one is made of acrylic supported by a gold framework. The indications are different for each design. The number of implants required are different based on the patient’s dental condition. Dr. Leung can assist you in deciding what is the most appropriate design for your unique situation.

Porcelain Bridge

This patient had all missing teeth in the top arch. He is allergic to acrylic, a material often used in denture fabrication and as a result, he cannot wear dentures. This patient received six implants and was restored with an implant fixed bridge made entirely of porcelain fused to metal. There is no acrylic in this prosthesis. This prosthesis restores his smile and function. In this case, Dr. Leung provided both the surgical placement of dental implants as well as the fabrication of the implant bridge.

Before:

After:

Acrylic Bridge

Shown here is another implant fixed bridge. The only difference is that it is made of acrylic supported by a gold framework. For some severe bone resorption cases, acrylic is a better material to use as it avoids using large amounts of porcelain on a heavy framework. Porcelain on a large framework may be subjected to higher level of stress and susceptible to fracture. Repairs on the porcelain implant bridge are difficult and costly. Repairs for acrylic are easier and less costly.