The multiple tooth replacement process

The multiple tooth replacement process is suitable for people who are missing two or more adjacent teeth. This advanced restorative treatment will permanently restore your missing teeth, improving the appearance of your mouth and allowing you to speak, eat and smile with confidence. Multiple tooth replacements include fixed options and removable bridges with implant teeth made from acrylic or porcelain. An implant-supported bridge is a far superior option to multiple tooth supported fixed bridges or removable dentures. Implant-supported bridges replace teeth without needing to be supported by adjacent teeth and preserve your bone to a greater degree. The implants will integrate with your jawbone and help keep the bone intact and healthy.

What causes multiple tooth loss?

Losing more than one of your teeth can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Gum disease and decay – excessive tooth decay can cause gums and root structures to become infected. Teeth then become weak and either fall out or need to be extracted.
• Injury – such as sports injuries, car accidents or other causes of blunt traumas to the face and jaw, which can lead to fractured or broken teeth.
• Dental conditions – such as hypodontia or anodontia, where teeth are not present or never develop at all.
• Traumas – such as root fractures or root resorption, which can cause infections and tooth loss.
• Smoking – which can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
• Excessive tooth grinding or clenching – which can wear away teeth and cause them to become loose and eventually fall out.

The process of replacing multiple teeth

The multiple teeth replacement process begins with a consultation, involving an examination, an assessment of your dental and medical history, imaging of your teeth and a discussion about your treatment options.   You are a good candidate for a multiple tooth replacement if:

• You are missing two or more adjacent teeth
• You have several damaged teeth in a consecutive row, regardless of their position
• You are seeking a replacement for your removable dental bridge or dentures
• You have enough jawbone density to support the implant
• You have good overall health

Before the procedure begins, your mouth will be numbed with anaesthetic. Then the metal implants to support the bridge will be implanted into your jaw. The number of implants required will depend on how many teeth need replacing and the size of your restoration. The implants are then allowed to fuse with your jawbone over the next two to six months and will be covered with a temporary restoration. Once this process is complete, the implants will be uncovered and extensions (the foundations for your new teeth) will be attached. Replacement teeth or bridges will be created by a specialist dentist and then attached to the implants in your jaw. The actual procedure of placing the implants and later, attaching the restorations, should be able to be completed in a single dental visit. These visits will be a number of months apart however, to allow the implant to fuse with your jawbone. You should be able to return to work or your normal duties within one or two days of the surgery. You may experience some pain or swelling, but it should be easily controlled by over-the-counter pain medication.

The All-on-four dental implant procedure

The widely recognised and revolutionary All-on-four dental implant procedure is becoming an increasingly popular rehabilitation technique. With All-on-four, a whole arch of either upper or lower teeth are supported by only four implants. This technique does away with the need for bone grafting, which is great news for patients suffering from excessive bone loss. The treatment gives patients the option of having a provisional bridge placed on the implants immediately (even if you’ve had multiple tooth removals on the same day), or a permanent bridge can be placed within two or three days of the dental implant surgery.

Benefits of having a multiple tooth replacement

• The appearance of your smile will be restored
• You will be able to smile and speak with confidence
• Multiple teeth implants are the most stable restorative solution and will not slip or move in your mouth
• You will be able to eat anything you want, as natural chewing and biting capacity is restored
• Multiple tooth restorations require no alterations to be made to your surrounding teeth
• Your oral health will also benefit from a multiple tooth restoration, as this procedure can prevent further tooth loss, a changing facial structure and jawbone degeneration
• Your multiple tooth restoration will be custom-made to blend in seamlessly with your smile
• Multiple tooth implants are comfortable, and look, act and feel just like your natural teeth
• They are a permanent solution to the problem of missing teeth, meaning the problem is solved once and for all, with no messy adhesives or cleaning solutions to use
• Multiple tooth implants are a cost-effective solution when you consider how long they will last

How to ensure the success of your multiple tooth restoration

• Have regular follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure that your mouth is healing well, and things are proceeding as expected
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene practices, including daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular professional cleaning by your dentist