Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges
Dental treatments for your missing teeth
When you lose a tooth, it is essential to get a suitable replacement to keep the rest of your teeth in alignment. Replacement teeth can also help you maintain the shape of your face and prevent difficulty eating or speaking. Two of the most common options are dental bridges and dental implants.
Tooth loss is very common. It is estimated that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one adult tooth. By age 74, approximately one-quarter of Americans lose all of their teeth.
Tooth loss can disrupt your daily life, affecting your confidence, appearance, and health. Whether you've lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury, it's a good idea to replace missing teeth as soon as possible.
What are bridges and implants?
While people have selected the option of fixed bridges to replace missing teeth for years, modern dentistry has made tooth replacement with dental implants a popular choice.
Dental bridges are false teeth attached to the teeth surrounding the missing one. They can cover one or several missing teeth. They are usually made of materials such as porcelain or plastic to match the natural color of your teeth.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are usually made of titanium. They are mounted to the jaw bone with screws to hold a crown or bridge.
These solutions can restore your confidence in smiling and prevent further dental problems.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants and Dental Bridges
Dental implants and bridges can offer natural-looking results but have advantages and disadvantages. When several treatment options are available for missing teeth, it is essential to study each treatment's pros and cons before choosing to replace them.
Pros of bridges
- In almost all cases, they are covered by insurance
- No bone grafting or invasive surgery is required.
- The initial cost is usually lower than dental implants.
- It only requires two visits to the dentist.
Cons of bridges
- Must be replaced approximately every 5 to 7 years
- They lose their natural appearance over time.
- More decay in surrounding teeth than with implants
- Can damage surrounding healthy teeth
Pros of implants
- It can last up to 15 years or longer with proper care
- Retain natural appearance longer
- No damage to healthy teeth around the implant
Cons of implants
- Less likely to be covered by insurance
- The entire process can take up to 6 months
- Higher initial cost
- Can lead to surgical complications
How to choose between an implant and a bridge
Your dentist can advise you about the best tooth replacement for your situation. The right option depends on your budget, how many teeth you're missing, and your overall health.
Cost
If you have dental insurance, it's more likely that it will cover a dental bridge than an implant. If you don't have insurance and both options are out of your price range, you may want to also talk to a dentist about partial dentures or other options.
Number of missing teeth
A dental bridge may be better if you're missing more than one consecutive tooth. Each implant must be surgically attached to your jawbone, making it more expensive and impractical in some instances.
Overall health
The best implant candidates are in good health and have a strong jawbone. Dental implants require surgery, so they may not be an option for people with medical conditions that slow healing, such as diabetes or leukemia.
Time
The entire process of getting a dental implant can take months, while a dental bridge can be installed in two trips to your dentist spread over a couple of weeks.
Recovery from dental surgery
If you experience discomfort after surgery, over-the-counter pain relievers should resolve it. Your dentist usually inserts an implant in one to two hours, and recovery time is relatively quick. Most patients will feel well enough to return to work and other normal activities the next day.
Recovery time from a traditional bridge is also short. You may experience mild gum soreness after the dentist sets the bridge in place. However, this usually goes away after several days. You may need time and adjustment to eat with your new dental bridge. You will need to avoid hard, chewy foods and cut softer foods into smaller pieces until you get used to them.
Missing teeth repair in Parker, AZ
If you're ready to restore your smile, need a little help deciding between bridges and implants, or have any questions, our dentists are here to help.
At Parker Dental Center, our professional dentists are at your fingertips. Book a consultation through our number (928) 669-0099 or visit our website, and we'll have your smile back to its former glory in no time.