Converting into Fixed Bridge: Which Implant System Should I Choose?
Betty asks:
My 86-yr-old mom has a floating bridge on her lower mandible, and is considering an implant to transform all this trouble into a fixed bridge. Her current one clicks at times when she's eating, and she says it feels too loose and it's an effort to chew some food. My question is, which type of implant or implant system is more viable for this senior? Thanks so much!!!
Hi Betty
Your mom is not alone! It's been estimated there are over 36 million edentulous people in the USA alone (missing all teeth in at least one jaw) and that number is expected to reach 38 million by the year 2020.
Based on what you described, it seems your mom has a removable full lower denture, and her complaints are not uncommon. If she is really contemplating converting it into a fixed (non-removable) bridge, that usually requires a minimum of 4 implants, as in the All-on-4TM procedure.
If she's just looking to increase the stability of her current denture, that is routinely done with two implants, which then engage special attachments placed in the denture base. In this scenario, although it would be more stable, this would still be a removable prosthesis for her. Generally speaking, any of the major implant manufactures would suffice for the latter. For the All-on-4TM fixed bridge, Nobel Biocare is a good option.
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Converting into Fixed Bridge: Which Implant System Should I Choo
Dear Betty: I would look into several options your mother has. The decision should be made on her overall health and ability to undergo a surgical procedure as well as the cost to benefit of different implant systems.
The amount of her remaining bone really determines the treatment options she has. A dental CT scan is needed, especially for the lower jaw and especially when there is moderate to severe bone loss. A fixed non-movable bridge is the best and can be a good option at a moderate cost. This would most likely be the All-On-4(TM) bridge with two vertical and two angled conventional size implants. If a removable denture is the option, it can be anchored to 2-4 conventional size implants with very good results and a little less cost. ( 4 implants are definitely best and 3 are better than 2)
There are mini implants that can be placed. Mini implants require little surgery and/or healing difficulties. They are good for elderly patients and require 2-4 mini implants.( again the more the better for longevity and happiness of the result) The more mini implants the better since these implants are not as supportive as conventional size implants. The mini treatment gives you another lower cost option. The patients budget, bone support,expectations and health will determine what is a reasonable option for success. Ask your dentist for his/her experience with these options and how the results have been with similar patients.
Sincerely,
Dr. Smith
Dr. Leonard H. Smith
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