A hybrid denture is the name for a bridge that uses implants to fix the loss of many teeth and the gums and bone around them.
Several dental implants are placed in the jaw bone and the bridge is glued or screwed into place. The result is a new set of teeth that are cosmetic and strong and allow a person all the use and enjoyment of real teeth.
Background: the missing teeth are usually lost due to an accident, or the loss of teeth due to an infection. Severe gum disease is also a common cause.
The treatment options for loosing all of your teeth are three. Each of the treatments has its advantages and drawbacks.
- Complete dentures (plates)
- Removable denture held or clip-in by dental implants
- Permanent bridge supported by implants
Complete dentures
Fast and less expensive, they are the least comfortable. We hear many stories about an uncle or mother who ate through peanut brittle and corn on the cob with them. But the fact is the vast majority of people in the 21st century do not function or enjoy having them.
Advantage: Fast and Cheap
Disadvantage: Not comfortable for most people. Cannot taste or chew foods well.
Clip-on denture with implants
An excellent solution for the upper jaw, and a good solution for the lower. Done correctly, the looks and the function are close to the same as a permanent bridge. This is usually used when there is not enough bone for more dental implants. This takes six months to complete from the day implants are placed.
Advantage: less implants needed.
Disadvantage: Can have some movement. Need to remove once a day to clean.
Permanent bridge supported by implants
These can be made from resin or ceramic. The resin bridge is called a hybrid denture. The ceramic bridge is called a porcelain bridge. usually no difference in the cosmetic result between the two -both have different application best decided by your Houston dentist.
Advantage: The strongest and most comfortable teeth possible
Disadvantage: Higher cost. Only the dentist can remove, although hardly ever needed.