
May
Losing teeth can profoundly impact a person’s daily life and activities. Tooth loss affects your smile but also changes how you chew your food and speak. If you’re looking for a transformative solution, an implant-supported bridge provided by Dr. Brianna Rafetto can greatly improve the quality of your life. Here are six facts about implant-supported bridges.
Understanding the benefits of an implant-supported bridge helps to have an overview of dental implants. A dental implant replaces one missing tooth. Implants have three parts: a titanium screw to replace the root in the tooth you lost, a small abutment, and a crown that shows above the gum line to complete your tooth.
Once Dr. Rafetto has determined you’re a good candidate for an implant-supported bridge, your dental implants will be placed. It starts with a titanium post that is surgically embedded into your jawbone. The screw will become fully integrated with the jaw through a process known as osseointegration. After three to six months, the screw will be healed. The abutment and crown are put into place at that time, and your dental implants are ready for your bridge.
Patients who want natural-looking results will enjoy the technology behind implant-supported bridges. The materials and design used are specifically engineered to closely mimic your natural teeth’ shape, color, and translucency.
Implant-supported bridges have many benefits that improve a person’s oral health and quality of life.
When a tooth is missing, the jawbone starts to deteriorate because it is no longer being stimulated by the tooth’s root. Chewing and biting stimulate the bone, and when it’s no longer receiving this stimulation, the bone will resorb over time. This can lead to changes in facial structure and make neighboring teeth less stable.
Compared to other tooth-replacement options, an implant-supported bridge stands out because it lasts a long time, is stable, and can preserve bone health. A traditional bridge relies on adjacent natural teeth, which can decay or become worn over time if not cleaned properly. Tooth replacement options that consist of removable dentures often lack stability and require adhesives. Implant-supported bridges give you a more permanent and secure solution. Also, they require very little maintenance.
Middletown, Delaware, residents have an excellent option if they want to learn how an implant-supported bridge can change their lives. Dr. Brianna Rafetto and the Bright Dental Brianna Rafetto D.M.D., P.A. team are here to restore your smile. Call (302) 391-6222 today to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Brianna Rafetto is a dedicated and compassionate dentist with a rich background in dentistry. Born in Hockessin, DE, and raised in Kennett Square, PA, she has deep roots in the Delaware dental community. Dr. Rafetto earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Dental Residency at Christiana Care’s Wilmington Hospital. Her expertise spans complex oral surgery, advanced prosthodontics, and cosmetic restorative treatments. As a trusted member of the Bright Dental family, Dr. Rafetto is committed to providing honest, gentle, and high-quality care to all her patients.