Implant bridges and full-arch teeth
An implant bridge is a row of replacement teeth fixed to several implants in the jaw. A full-arch bridge replaces all the teeth on the top or the bottom. Only the dentist takes it off.
Dr. Leung plans the case, places the implants and designs and fits the bridge herself.
What happens
Usually five to eight visits over several months, depending on your plan.
- 01
Step 1: Consult and scan
An exam, a 3D scan and a talk about what you want to change. Dr. Leung measures your bone and bite on the scan.
- 02
Step 2: A plan in writing
How many implants, where they go, what the bridge is made of and what each stage costs. The number of implants comes from your bone and your plan.
- 03
Step 3: Preparing the mouth
Teeth that cannot be kept are removed, and a bone graft is added first when the scan calls for it.
- 04
Step 4: Placing the implants
Dr. Leung places the implants. In some cases a temporary bridge is fitted at the surgery visit; we tell you after the scan whether yours can be.
- 05
Step 5: Healing, then the final bridge
After months of healing, new scans, a check of your bite, a trial and the final bridge. Check visits follow.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
We numb the area, and you can ask for a break at any time. A longer surgery visit is planned with you in advance.
Other choices
A removable denture, an implant-retained denture, or a partial denture. Dr. Leung compares them with your scan.
If you wait
Loose or failing teeth can get worse, and the bone that holds them keeps changing. Waiting is a choice, and it is yours.
Risks and after-care
Risks include infection, implants that do not join the bone, a bridge screw that loosens, and wear on the teeth over time. Expect swelling and soft food for a while, careful cleaning under the bridge, and regular check visits.
How it is billed
In stages, as each is done, with a written estimate first. Whether your plan pays toward any stage is the plan's decision.
How fees work
Questions about implant bridges
Is a bridge different from a denture?
Yes. A bridge is fixed to implants and only the dentist takes it off. A denture comes out for cleaning.
Will I have teeth while I heal?
Sometimes a temporary bridge is possible at the surgery visit, and sometimes a temporary denture is. We tell you after the scan.
Can I clean under it?
Yes, and you need to. We show you the brushes and tools, and the check visits include cleaning.
What happens if a part breaks or wears?
Bridge parts can be repaired or replaced by Dr. Leung. We tell you what the usual wear is, and your check visits catch it early.
Planned, placed and made by Dr. Leung
Provided by Dr. Shu Leung, prosthodontist. Check visits are with a general dentist or with her.