Are you considering tooth replacement options? You might have heard of dental implants and bridges but don’t know how exactly they are different. Keep reading this article to find out what these restorations are, what the pros and cons of each are, and which one you should choose to bring confidence and shine back to your precious smile.
Understanding Dental Implants
A dental implant is basically a titanium post. It is surgically placed into the jawbone, and this allows it to serve as a sturdy root for the replacement tooth. The implant needs to fuse with the bone during a process called osseointegration, which takes several months. After this process, a custom-made, natural-looking crown is placed on top, giving you a tooth replacement that looks and functions just like your own teeth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits compared to many other tooth replacement options. These reliable artificial teeth are:
- Durable
- Natural-looking
- Easy to maintain
- Good for oral health
The design of dental implants allows them to last for many years. They are very stable since they are fused directly to the jawbone. This is also what makes them an agent that can preserve the health of your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate. This happens due to a lack of stimulation. Implants act as the root of a natural tooth, therefore stimulating the nerves in the jawbone and helping it remain thick.
When you get a dental implant, you’ll be able to chew and bite normally and enjoy your favorite foods. They are also an aesthetic option that can make you confident about your smile. Caring for them is similar to caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing will do it!
Disadvantages of Dental Implants (H3)
Despite all their benefits, you should consider some possible downsides of dental implants, too, before you make your final decision.
- Relatively costly
- Surgical procedure needed
- Takes longer to apply
All the good things about dental implants make them a pricier option to go with, especially if you want to replace multiple teeth.
Another thing that might make implants harder to get is that you need to undergo surgery. For people with health conditions or insufficient bone density, this might be a drawback. Enough bone density and overall oral and general health are necessary for getting implants. If bone density is not enough, it’s possible to increase it through “bone grafting” and “sinus augmentation” procedures.
Nevertheless, investing time and money into implants is worth it since it is justified by the benefits that come with implants in the long term.
Understanding Dental Bridges
When there’s a gap between your teeth created by a missing tooth, a bridge can fix it. In the structure of a bridge, you can see one or more artificial teeth (pontics). These are held in place by crowns cemented onto the adjacent natural teeth. If there are no healthy teeth nearby, they can be cemented to implants. Porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys are among the materials that are used to make bridges.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
- Cost-effective
- Less invasive
- Quicker to apply
- Proper function and appearance
Unlike implants, you don’t need to undergo surgery to get a dental bridge. The process can be completed in just a few weeks. So, if you prefer a quicker and less invasive tooth replacement option, you might like bridges.
A bridge will restore your chewing and speaking ability, and it will look natural as well. It is especially suitable for people who are missing multiple adjacent teeth.
Bridges are also less expensive than implants. Although the upfront investment is less, you should consider how it will work in the long term. The lifespan of a dental bridge is 5 to 15 years, so you might need to replace it in the future.
Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
- Impacts adjacent teeth
- Less durable
- Doesn’t preserve jawbone
- Potential for decay and gum disease
Maybe the biggest disadvantage of a bridge is that the adjacent teeth need to be prepared to apply it. These neighboring teeth must be filed down, even if they are healthy, to accommodate the crowns. This can weaken them over time.
Another drawback is that, unlike implants, bridges don’t stimulate the jawbone as they don’t have any artificial roots inside the jawbone. The jawbone is likely to shrink over time, making your face look aged. It also affects the fit of the bridge.
With a bridge, you are more likely to experience tooth decay and gum disease. This is because the area under the bridge, which is hard to clean, can become a haven for infection-causing bacteria.
Implants vs Bridges: Summary
We explored the nature of implants and bridges and their pros and cons separately. Let’s summarize what we learned from comparing these restorations:
- Unlike bridges, implants are placed through a surgical procedure.
- Unlike bridges, implants require an adequate amount of jawbone density.
- Implants are more durable than bridges and can last a lifetime.
- Implants are more stable than bridges as they have a titanium root placed inside the jawbone.
- The appearance of both implants and bridges is natural and acceptable.
- Implants keep the jawbone healthy and thick. Bridges don’t.
- To place a bridge, adjacent teeth need to be altered for crowns. At the same time, implants are independent of other teeth.
- Bridges have a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Bridges are less expensive than implants.
- It takes several months for an implant to be placed but a few weeks for a bridge.
- Implants are easier to maintain (normal brushing and flossing). Bridges have their cleaning challenges, especially in the area under the pontic.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Now that you have the necessary information about both implants and bridges, you’re closer to making up your mind about choosing the better option for you. Although this information can help you understand implants and bridges better, you definitely need to speak to a professional to make a good decision. Your oral health should be assessed thoroughly by a dentist to tell which option is better for you.
Consider the following factors:
Your Oral Health: If you have enough jawbone density, you are generally healthy, and you are willing to invest in the long-term function of your tooth replacement. It’s better to go with dental implants.
But if your jawbone lacks enough density, or you have certain health issues that may make surgery risky, a bridge can be a safer option.
Your Budget: Bridges are a more budget-friendly option if you prefer an affordable tooth replacement. Although bridges are less expensive than implants, they are also less durable and may need to be replaced after several years.
Your Preference for Treatment Time: If you need a quick solution, a bridge offers faster results. However, if you are willing to invest more time for a longer-lasting outcome, an implant is worth considering.
Long-Term Goals: Implants offer clear advantages if you want to preserve your jawbone density. But if you’re more concerned with immediate aesthetics and function without surgical intervention, bridges can still be a good option.
Get Your High-Quality Dental Restorations in North York
Our experienced dentists help you get your high-quality implant or bridge conveniently. We’ll discuss the most efficient treatment options with you so you can achieve a smile you’re proud of. Our advanced tools and comfortable environment create an outstanding dental experience for you. At Walk-in Family Dental, you’ll find everything you need to smile confidently. Get your free consultation today by calling +1 (647) 799-6622.
