Missing multiple teeth? An implant-supported bridge can restore your smile without relying on adjacent natural teeth for support. At Blue Dental on the Upper East Side, we design implant-supported bridges that look, feel, and function like your own teeth—so you can chew, speak, and smile with confidence again.

Why Choose an Implant-Supported Bridge

• Preserves natural teeth: No need to grind down healthy teeth like with traditional bridges.
• Bone-friendly: Implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent bone loss where teeth are missing.
• Strong & stable: Anchored to titanium implants, not just gums or neighboring teeth.
• Natural esthetics: Custom-designed porcelain or zirconia bridgework to match your smile.
• Longevity: Properly cared-for implant bridges can last decades.

Who’s a Good Candidate

• Two or more adjacent missing teeth
• Adequate bone volume for implants (or willing to have grafting if needed)
• Good oral hygiene and healthy gums
• Non-smoker or willing to reduce/quit to improve healing
• Desire for a fixed (non-removable) solution

Implant-Supported Bridges vs. Other Options

• Implant-Supported Bridge: Fixed, most natural function and bone preservation.
• Traditional Bridge: Supported by natural teeth on either side; requires reshaping healthy teeth.
• Partial Denture: Removable; more affordable but less stable and less natural feeling.

How the Procedure Works

1. Assessment & planning: Digital imaging, 3D scans, and bite analysis to map implant positions.
2. Implant placement: Small titanium posts placed in the jaw under local anesthesia or sedation.
3. Healing & integration: Implants fuse with bone over several months (temporary options available).
4. Bridge fabrication: Digital impressions guide the creation of a custom porcelain or zirconia bridge.
5. Final attachment: The bridge is secured to the implants; we check bite and esthetics.

The process typically spans a few months from start to finish, depending on healing and case complexity.

Care & Maintenance

Brush and floss normally with special floss/threaders or interdental brushes under the bridge. Come for regular cleanings so we can check the implants and bridge integrity. Good hygiene greatly extends the life of your restoration.

Cost & Insurance

Fees depend on the number of implants, type of bridge, and any preparatory procedures (like bone grafts). Many PPO plans offer partial coverage for the restorative portion. We verify benefits in advance, provide written estimates, and can phase treatment when appropriate.

FAQs

How many implants do I need for a bridge?
Usually one implant per missing tooth is not required—often two implants can support a 3- or 4-tooth span. We’ll plan for optimal stability.

Is the bridge removable?
No. It’s fixed to the implants and acts like natural teeth. We can remove it in-office if maintenance is ever needed.

Will it look like my other teeth?
Yes. We custom-shade the bridge to blend with your existing enamel or design a full smile makeover.

Does it hurt?
Implant placement is typically done with local anesthesia and gentle techniques. Most patients report minimal discomfort afterward.

What if I’ve lost bone?
We offer bone grafting or other regenerative procedures to make implants possible for many patients.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

Book an implant-supported bridge consultation at our Upper East Side office. We’ll map out your best options for a strong, natural-looking solution to multiple missing teeth.