What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jawbone to support replacement teeth or dentures. They are used as an alternative to traditional bridges, dental crowns, and removable partial dentures.
Dental Implant Pros and Cons
The pros of dental implants include:
- Improved appearance and provides a more natural-looking smile
- Better chewing ability
- Increased comfort
- Fewer problems with food getting stuck between the teeth
- No more loose dentures
- Less chance of gum disease
There are also some cons to dental implants:
- They require oral surgery and extensive healing time
- The cost may be higher than other options
- You will need to wear a temporary crown while your implant heals
What is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge replaces missing teeth by using crowns on adjacent teeth. It’s made from porcelain fused to metal (PFM) or ceramic materials. The advantage of this type of restoration is that it looks like your natural, healthy teeth and doesn’t require any special maintenance. However, it’s not always possible to use a bridge because there may be too many missing teeth, the tooth decay is too extensive, or they don’t match up well enough with the rest of your teeth. Dental bridges usually take two visits only a couple of weeks apart. The process involves placing a temporary bridge to your abutment teeth and then placing the permanent bridge.
If you have lost many teeth, you may want to consider dental implants instead. This option will provide a permanent solution for those who are missing the majority of their teeth.
Dental Bridges Pros and Cons
The pros of dental bridges:
- Looks similar to natural teeth
- Easy to clean
- Requires no special care
The cons of dental bridges:
- Not recommended if you have periodontal disease
- May loosen over time
- May chip or break
- May fall out
How to Choose Between an Implant and a Bridge
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jawbone to support replacement teeth or dentures. They are used as an alternative to traditional bridges, dental crowns, and removable partial dentures.
Cost
It’s important to weigh the costs of each treatment option. The cost of implants is typically higher than bridges. If you’re considering dental implants, ask about financing options. You may qualify for lower interest rates through a loan program offered by your dentist or dental insurance company.
Number of Missing Teeth
When choosing between dental implants and a bridge, think about how many teeth you’ll lose. A bridge might work best if you have fewer missing teeth or missing a single tooth. On the other hand, dental implants would be a good option for people if there are several missing teeth or severe tooth loss.
Location of Missing Teeth
Another factor to consider is where your missing teeth are located. For example, if you have two upper front teeth missing, a bridge would probably look best. But a dental implant might be your best bet if you have a gap in your mouth.
Overall health
Think about whether you have any existing medical conditions that could affect your decision. For example, if your gums are inflamed, then you may not be able to get dental implants. Also, if you have gum disease or severe bone loss, then you should avoid placing implants into the bone that has been damaged. You may also want to consider the healing process, as dental implants take longer to heal and require special post-surgery requirements such as eating soft foods.
Time
Consider how long you plan to wear your new teeth. A bridge might be a good option if you expect to replace them within five years. On the other hand, if you expect to keep your implants for life, then implants might be your best choice.
Your Lifestyle
Do you smoke? Do you drink alcohol often? These habits can affect your oral health and increase your risk of developing certain diseases. If you do these things regularly, then you should talk to your dentist about your options. Both options require improved oral hygiene habits to avoid further damage to your teeth.
Finding The Right Choice for You
Contact our dental professionals if you still have questions on whether dental implants or dental bridges are right for you. We can answer your questions and put your mind at ease. We want to ensure you are comfortable and understand all of the ins and outs of each before you choose. Give our office a call today!
