Why are dental implants better than a bridge?
Bridge vs. Implant
Dental Implants or a bridge. Well, that’s a tough one to answer. Tooth loss is is actually quite common. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 70% of adults between the ages of 35 to 44 have lost at least one of their adult teeth.
If you lose a tooth, it’s extremely important to get some type of replacement so as to keep the rest of your teeth in alignment. by getting replacement teeth, you will also avoid problems with eating or speaking and maintain your facial shape and appearance. The two most popular options are dental bridges and dental implants.
A bridge is a false tooth made from porcelain or plastic that replaces the missing teeth. They can be used to replace one or several missing teeth.
A dental implant is like an artificial tooth root usually made out of titanium. They are mounted directly onto your jawbone with screws to later secure a crown or bridge on top of it. A dental implant requires surgery, but it will last longer and provide better function than a bridge.
But lets take a quick look at the Pros and Cons of getting a dental implant versus a bridge.
Dental Implants Pros
Keep your smile confident: Dental implants are stable and secure, so you can smile with confidence.
If you want to restore your smile, then dental implants may be the best option for you. With dental implants, there will be no need to worry about your bridge breaking or getting knocked out of place.
A dental implant is far more durable, reliable and comfortable for the patient.
Dental implants are better than bridges because they are more durable, offer a lifetime warranty and require no tooth loss.
Implants feel, look and function like a natural tooth.
Durable: You can enjoy the benefits of your new dental implant for years to come.
Dental Implant Cons
Surgery: The dentist will have to surgically attach the dental implant to your jawbone.
The implant process can take much longer than getting a bridge
Dental implants are often more expensive than getting a bridge
Bridge Pros
Bridges are far more likely to be covered under the patient’s insurance plan
Does not require invasive surgery
Bridges usually have a lower initial (up-front) cost than Dental Implants
Getting a dental Bridge can often be completed in as little as 2 visits to the dentist’s office
Bridge Cons
Bridges need to be replace about every 5-7 years (however, they can last up to 10 years)
a bridge tends to lose its natural appearance with age
People often experience more tooth decay and cavities in the adjacent teeth than with implants
Placement of bridge requires removal of significant parts of the teeth.
Dental bridges have some advantages, including being cheaper and easier to replace. However, they are less durable and reliable than dental implants. A dental bridge might not last for a lifetime because it will need to be replaced often without needing root canal therapy.
Dental implants are often a much better than a dental bridge because they offer a lifetime warranty and require no tooth loss.
What are the alternatives to dental implants and bridges?
Other options for replacing missing teeth are dentures and space maintainers.
Partial dentures
A partial denture is a removable, artificial replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. Partial dentures are usually only used to replace one or two missing teeth at a time and can be made out of a variety of materials, including metal and ceramic.
In conclusion, dental implants are better than bridges because they last longer and there is less risk of rejection by the body.
Space maintainers
Space maintainers are widely used to prevent tooth loss. They do not replace missing teeth, but they can keep the space clear of food and saliva which could lead to gum disease. They are also a cheaper alternative to dental implants and bridges.
Implants are far better than any of these options because they look natural, feel like your real teeth and last for the rest of your life!
How Do We Choose Between A Dental Implant Or A Bridge
Cost
Prices will vary on the type of implant or bridge, materials used and where you live, but in general, dental implants are more expensive. Implants will cost more upfront and need replacement less often, but dental bridges are usually covered by insurance.
Comfort
Dental implants will feel natural and make chewing easier because there is no difference between your real teeth and your implanted tooth. Unlike a bridge or denture, implants won’t move or slip.
Health
Implants also provide a better seal with your gum line and can help prevent tooth decay under crowns and bridges because they are not in contact with dental decay.
Dental implants are also less likely to cause gum disease when compared to other options because they aren’t in constant contact with the mouth’s bacteria and food debris.
Number of missing teeth
A dental implant is better than a bridge if there are more than one missing tooth. The reason for this, is when you lose more than one tooth in the same area of your mouth, the remaining teeth will move and change the distance between themselves to make up for the missing tooth. This can cause other teeth to become misaligned or crooked, which can lead to periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
A dental implant will replace the missing tooth by securing a titanium post into your jawbone. A bridge is just an artificial replacement for one or more missing teeth.
Implants are better than a bridge if there are more than one missing tooth.
This passage explains why a Dental Implant is better then and Bridge for someone who has more than one missing teeth.
What’s The Verdict?
As most dental professionals and patients will agree, dental implants are the way to go. Although they are more expensive up front, in the long run they end up being the far less expensive option. Dental implants feel better, look better and are the overall healthier choice. But in the end it will come down to personal choice and what you and your dentist decide is best for you and your personal dental situation.
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