In dental implant restoration, a bridge is commonly used to replace missing teeth. A bridge consists of a pontic tooth (artificial tooth) that is held in place by two dental implants. One of the key components in ensuring the success of a bridge over a dental implant is the use of temporary cement. Temporary cement plays a crucial role throughout the various stages of the dental implant process. This article will delve into 10 key aspects of why temporary cement is used on a bridge over a dental implant, providing a comprehensive understanding of its importance and benefits.
Maintaining Proper Stability
Temporary cement provides an essential level of stability for the bridge during the healing process. It ensures that the bridge remains in place while the dental implant osseointegrates with the surrounding bone. This stability is crucial as it allows the patient to maintain normal oral function and prevents any movement or displacement of the bridge. It also enables the surrounding tissues to heal properly without any disturbances.
Furthermore, temporary cement provides sufficient support for the provisional restoration, ensuring its proper fit and preventing any issues that may arise due to movement or malocclusion. This stability is particularly important in cases where immediate loading of the dental implant is necessary.
Facilitating Easy Removal
Temporary cement allows for the easy removal of the bridge when necessary. During the initial stages of the dental implant process, there may be a need to adjust or modify the bridge to ensure proper fit and occlusion. Temporary cement allows the dentist to remove the bridge without causing any damage or discomfort to the patient. It provides a secure hold, but at the same time, it can be easily dislodged by the dentist when needed.
Additionally, in cases where the bridge needs to be replaced or repaired, temporary cement allows for efficient removal and reapplication without compromising the underlying dental implant or causing undue stress to the patient.
Preventing Microleakage
Microleakage, the unwanted passage of fluids or microorganisms between the bridge and the dental implant, can lead to complications such as peri-implantitis. Temporary cement acts as a barrier, preventing microleakage and minimizing the risk of infection. It creates a seal between the bridge and the dental implant, ensuring a tight and secure fit. This seal also helps to prevent the ingress of bacteria and saliva, maintaining optimal oral hygiene during the healing process.
Moreover, temporary cement with antibacterial properties provides an added layer of protection against microbial colonization, further reducing the risk of peri-implant infections.
Offering Flexibility for Adjustments
Temporary cement allows for easy adjustments and modifications to the bridge. Throughout the dental implant process, it is common for the bridge to undergo changes to achieve the desired aesthetics, occlusion, and function. Temporary cement provides the flexibility to make these adjustments without causing any damage to the bridge or the dental implant.
Dentists can easily remove the bridge, make the necessary modifications, and reapply the temporary cement to ensure a secure fit. This flexibility is essential in achieving optimal results and patient satisfaction during the restoration process.
Promoting Esthetics
Temporary cement plays a crucial role in promoting esthetics during the healing phase of the dental implant process. It allows for the temporary bridge to closely mimic the natural appearance of the final restoration. With proper shaping and coloration, temporary cement ensures that the patient maintains a pleasing smile and natural-looking teeth throughout the treatment period.
By providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing temporary restoration, temporary cement positively impacts the patient's confidence and overall satisfaction with the dental implant procedure.
Ensuring Comfort during Healing
During the healing phase of a dental implant, the patient's comfort is of utmost importance. Temporary cement contributes to the patient's comfort by maintaining proper alignment and occlusion of the bridge. It prevents any discomfort that may arise due to shifting or misalignment of the restoration.
The use of temporary cement also prevents irritation or injury to the soft tissues surrounding the dental implant. It ensures that the bridge does not exert any unnecessary pressure on the gums or adjacent teeth, allowing for a more comfortable healing process.
Protecting the Dental Implant
Temporary cement provides an additional layer of protection for the dental implant. It acts as a cushion, absorbing forces exerted on the bridge and reducing the impact on the dental implant itself. This protection is particularly crucial during the healing process when the dental implant is integrating with the bone.
In case of any occlusal trauma or excessive biting forces, the temporary cement can absorb the stress and prevent damage to the dental implant or surrounding tissues. This added protection ensures the long-term success of the dental implant restoration.
Pricing of Temporary Cement
The pricing of temporary cement for dental implants can vary depending on various factors such as the brand, quality, and quantity. On average, the cost of temporary cement ranges from $30 to $60 per unit. It is important to consult with a dental professional to determine the specific type of temporary cement required for the bridge over the dental implant and to get an accurate cost estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is temporary cement used on all dental implant bridges?
Yes, temporary cement is commonly used on all dental implant bridges. It provides stability, facilitates adjustments, and prevents microleakage during the healing process.
2. How long does temporary cement last on a dental implant bridge?
Temporary cement is designed to be easily removable. Its lifespan during the healing phase is usually a few weeks to a few months, depending on the individual case and treatment plan.
3. Can I remove the dental implant bridge with temporary cement by myself?
No, it is essential to seek professional dental care for the removal of a dental implant bridge. Attempting to remove it by yourself can lead to damage to the bridge, dental implant, or surrounding tissues.
References:
- Gonshor A. / Maintaining and retrieving cemented crowns/jackets for implants
- Bidra AS, et al. / Retrievability of implant-supported crowns luted with temporary cements
- Solá-Ruíz MF, et al. / Current status of fixed implant-supported prostheses. Part II: Retrievability