Trying to choose between getting a dental implant or a dental bridge? These two options are used for replacing teeth. Neither is better than the other, and both can help improve one’s overall oral health. Missing teeth can lead to many other dental problems, making it necessary for you to choose a tooth replacement option as soon as possible, so you can be on your way to better oral health.
Dental bridges
Dental bridges work by covering the teeth next to the empty space with crowns so the false tooth attached to the crowns is held securely in place. The teeth that the crowns will be covering will need some preparation so the crowns will properly attach.
Advantages:
- Helps prevent teeth from shifting
- Looks like natural teeth
- Restores teeth functionality
Disadvantages:
- Does not prevent bone loss
- Lasts somewhere between five and 10 years
- Reduces structure of supporting teeth
Dental implants
Dental implants involve inserting an artificial tooth root into the jawbone so a crown can be placed on top, essentially making a whole new tooth.
Advantages:
- Helps prevent bone loss
- Helps prevent teeth from moving
- Looks and feels like natural teeth
- Prevents teeth from shifting
- Can last for 20 years or more
Disadvantages:
- Takes months to complete the process
- Involves using a surgical procedure
- Can be cost-prohibitive
Which solution is the right choice?
To understand which solution is the right choice for someone missing one or more teeth, an appointment with a dental professional must be made. While dental bridges are a less invasive option for replacing a missing tooth, dental implants are permanent, which is often preferred among dental patients. It is also important to understand that patients interested in getting dental implants must have enough bone structure for the process to work. They must also be in good general health, which means that they must not be a smoker (or stop smoking if they are). They may also need some additional treatments when diagnosed with other health issues, i.e., diabetes, cancer, etc.
Ready to find out your tooth replacement choices?
Even missing one tooth can lead to additional oral problems, making either a dental bridge or dental implant necessary. While you may be tempted to ignore your missing tooth because it does not seem to be causing you any problems, it eventually will. When you lose a tooth, it leaves an empty space, and the surrounding teeth now have nothing to keep them in perfect alignment and will begin to shift and move around. When teeth become crooked, it is more difficult to clean them, which means you are more susceptible to experience tooth problems, including tooth decay.
To understand which tooth replacement solution is the most ideal for your situation, you will need to make a consultation appointment with our Impressions Dental office in Chandler, AZ.
