Dental Implants
Hybrid Prosthesis in Gladstone
A full arch of teeth that stays put.
A hybrid prosthesis replaces every tooth in an arch with a fixed set that is attached to implants. You brush it in place and wear it around the clock, much like natural teeth.
Exceptional Dentistry in Gladstone, MO
Part denture, part bridge
The name comes from the way a hybrid prosthesis blends two familiar treatments. Like a denture, it replaces a whole arch of teeth along with some of the gum tissue that is lost when teeth are gone, which helps support the lips and cheeks. Like a bridge, it is fixed: the prosthesis is secured to implants with small screws, and it does not come out for cleaning or at bedtime. The teeth are typically built over a strong framework that runs the length of the arch, and they can be made from materials such as acrylic, composite or zirconia depending on the design. Because the implants carry the prosthesis, it does not rely on suction or adhesive the way a conventional full denture does.
Fixed or removable? Choosing between implant options
A hybrid prosthesis and an implant supported denture both use implants to hold a full arch of teeth, but they are cared for differently. An implant supported denture snaps on and off, so you take it out every day to clean it. A hybrid prosthesis stays fixed, so cleaning happens with the teeth in place, using a brush, floss threaders or a water flosser around and beneath it. Some people value the feel of teeth that never come out, while others prefer being able to remove the appliance. Your dentist will go over both with you, taking into account the bone available and what matters most to you day to day.
Why people consider it
What a fixed full arch offers
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Teeth that do not come out
The prosthesis stays secured to the implants, so there is no removing it at night or after meals.
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A steady bite
Anchored on implants, the teeth are designed to stay firmly in place while you bite and chew.
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A fuller profile
The gum-colored portion can restore volume lost with the teeth and support the face.
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No palate coverage
An upper hybrid prosthesis typically leaves the roof of the mouth uncovered.
Dental implant consultation
$50
A $608 value
Missing teeth? For only $50, our team will evaluate your oral health and guide you through your implant options. Your consultation includes:
- Comprehensive oral exam
- 3D X-rays (CT scan) for precise planning
- Panoramic X-rays
- Personalized implant treatment plan
- Detailed information on the procedure
- Answers to all your questions
Planning a hybrid prosthesis
A fixed full arch involves careful planning, because the implant positions, the bite and the shape of the new teeth all depend on one another.
- A consultation to discuss your goals and review your current teeth or denture
- cone beam CT imaging to evaluate the bone throughout the arch
- Records, photographs and digital impressions to design the new smile
- Any extractions and the placement of the implants
- A provisional stage while the implants and bone join together
- Fitting the final prosthesis and refining the bite
Why choose Marx Family Dental for a hybrid prosthesis?
A full-arch restoration is a major decision, and it deserves an unhurried conversation. We show you your imaging, explain how the implants and the prosthesis fit together and answer every question before treatment begins. Our dental implants page covers the wider range of implant treatments.
Book a consultation
Explore a fixed full arch of teeth
Schedule an implant consultation to find out whether a hybrid prosthesis could suit you. We will review your imaging, compare it with removable options and help you decide.
The short answer
A hybrid prosthesis is a fixed, full-arch set of replacement teeth that is screwed onto dental implants in the jaw and removed only by a dentist. Planning includes a consultation, cone beam CT imaging of the bone, records and digital impressions, any extractions and implant placement, a provisional stage while the implants and bone join, and fitting of the final prosthesis. It combines the look of a denture, including gum-colored material that supports the lips and cheeks, with the stability of implants, so it stays in place day and night.
Hybrid Prosthesis FAQ
- Can I take a hybrid prosthesis out?
- No, a hybrid prosthesis is not removable by the wearer. It is screwed onto the implants and is removed only by your dentist, usually during a maintenance visit. That is what lets it stay in place around the clock, including after meals and at bedtime.
- How is a hybrid prosthesis different from a regular denture?
- A conventional denture sits on the gums and is taken out every day, while a hybrid prosthesis is fastened to implants and remains in your mouth around the clock. Because the implants carry it, a hybrid prosthesis does not rely on suction or adhesive the way a full denture does. An upper hybrid prosthesis also typically leaves the roof of the mouth uncovered.
- How do I clean a hybrid prosthesis?
- Brush the teeth and gum line as you would natural teeth, since the prosthesis stays in place while you clean it. Clean underneath the prosthesis with floss threaders, an interdental brush or a water flosser to reach where food and plaque collect. Regular professional cleanings are also important, and they are when your dentist can remove the prosthesis if needed.
- What is a hybrid prosthesis made of?
- A hybrid prosthesis typically has a strong framework that runs the length of the arch, covered with replacement teeth and gum-colored material. Acrylic, composite and zirconia are common choices for the teeth, depending on the design. Your dentist will explain the options and how each one fits your bite and goals.
- Is a hybrid prosthesis the same as an implant supported denture?
- No, although both are held by implants and both replace a full arch of teeth. An implant supported denture is removable, snapping on and off so you take it out every day to clean it. A hybrid prosthesis is fixed in place and is cleaned with the teeth still in your mouth. Your dentist will go over both with you, taking into account the bone available and what matters most to you.
Your dentist
Meet Dr. Emily Marx
A skilled family dentist, Dr. Marx is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable while achieving their best smile. Meet Dr. Marx
