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Implant-supported bridges

Implant-supported bridges offer a supportive, long-term approach to replacing multiple missing teeth.

An implant bridge replaces two or more consecutive teeth by securing a bridge to dental implants.

Rather than relying on neighbouring teeth alone, implants provide stable support for replacement teeth and may also help maintain jawbone structure where clinically appropriate.

In some cases, temporary teeth may be provided during healing, with the final bridge fitted once treatment is complete.

Implant bridges may
be suitable for
patients who:

have two or more missing teeth in a row

have experienced tooth loss due to injury, decay, or gum disease

want a fixed alternative to removable partial dentures

are looking to restore bite stability and chewing function

would like a coordinated approach to tooth replacement

Suitability depends on factors such as bone levels, gum health, and overall medical history. A comprehensive consultation is required to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you.

The 4-step
treatment process

Consultation
and assessment

01

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation. Your dentist will assess your oral health through a clinical examination and imaging, explain the treatment options available, and discuss potential risks and alternatives.

Treatment planning 
and preparation

02

Before implant placement, records are taken to support accurate planning. Treatment is often completed in stages, and timelines can vary – usually 6–12 months from planning to final restoration. In some cases, existing healthy implants may be able to be incorporated into the final plan.

Implant placement

03

Dental implants are placed into the jawbone in carefully planned positions. Healing time is required before the bridge is secured, although temporary teeth may be used in some situations.

Bridge fitting and follow-up care

04

Once healing is complete, the implant-supported bridge is fitted and reviewed. Follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor function, comfort, and long-term oral health.

Implant bridges compared with other tooth replacement options

Treatment typeTreatment typeTraditional removable denturesTraditional fixed bridges
No. of implants4-6None2-3
Fixed or removableFixedRemovableRemovable
Treatment timeframe2-5 days3-4 months3-4 months
BenefitsA well-established method for full-arch tooth replacementNon-surgical approach with easy maintenanceAn affordable option for people who find dentures uncomfortable
Cost range25k+1k+7k+

Potential benefits of implant bridges

For suitable patients, implant bridges may be able to provide these benefits.

Improve comfort in daily tasks like chewing and speaking

Reduce reliance on removable appliances

Reduce reliance on
removable dentures

Assist in preserving existing jawbone structure

Help maintain jawbone structure around missing teeth

Provide a fixed tooth replacement option

Help support bite stability

Alternatives to 
implant bridges

01

Fixed bridge

Fixed bridge

A fixed bridge is a common alternative that uses crowns placed over the natural teeth on either side of the gap to support a replacement tooth in between.

This option may be suitable when the adjacent teeth are healthy enough to provide support, but it does rely on those teeth rather than implants.

02

Cantilever bridge

Nitrous oxide (“happy gas”)

Cantilever bridge

A cantilever bridge is supported by a crown on only one neighbouring tooth instead of two. It may be considered when only one suitable tooth is available next to the missing tooth space.

Because this can place additional pressure on the supporting tooth, careful assessment is required.

03

Maryland bonded bridge

Maryland bonded bridge

Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this option uses small metal or ceramic wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth to hold the replacement tooth in place.

This approach typically involves minimal preparation of surrounding teeth and may be suitable in certain cases where the supporting teeth are stable.

Before & after

Before-and-after images help illustrate typical treatment outcomes. Images shown are representative examples only. Individual results vary depending on oral health, treatment planning, and healing response. Images published with informed patient consent.

ba-before-1
ba-after-1

Treatment: All-On-4 Plus® implants
After photo taken approximately 3 weeks after procedure.

ba-before-2
ba-after-2

Treatment: All-On-4 Plus® implants
After photo taken approximately 3 weeks after procedure.

ba-before-3
ba-after-3

Treatment: All-On-4 Plus® implants
After photo taken approximately 3 weeks after procedure.

Cost of implant bridges

The cost of implant bridges depends on factors such as:

  • the complexity of the case
  • materials used in the bridge
  • whether additional procedures are needed

Payment plans available

Ready to explore implant bridge treatment? We offer a range of payment plans to help make your treatment more manageable.

FAQs

Common questions about implant bridges treatment, suitability, and aftercare.

Most patients report manageable discomfort during recovery. Your dentist will provide tailored advice and support to help you feel comfortable throughout treatment.

At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre in Melbourne, this treatment is carefully planned by an experienced team in a calm and reassuring environment.

Most patients report manageable discomfort during recovery. Your dentist will provide tailored advice and support to help you feel comfortable throughout treatment.

At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre in Melbourne, this treatment is carefully planned by an experienced team in a calm and reassuring environment.

Most patients report manageable discomfort during recovery. Your dentist will provide tailored advice and support to help you feel comfortable throughout treatment.

At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre in Melbourne, this treatment is carefully planned by an experienced team in a calm and reassuring environment.

Most patients report manageable discomfort during recovery. Your dentist will provide tailored advice and support to help you feel comfortable throughout treatment.

At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre in Melbourne, this treatment is carefully planned by an experienced team in a calm and reassuring environment.

Contact us

If you’re experiencing tooth loss and would like to know whether an implant-supported bridge may be suitable for you, our team is here to help.

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