Dental Implants vs Dental Bridge

Whether your tooth has recently fallen out, gotten accidentally knocked out or has needed to be pulled, it’s important to replace the missing tooth as soon as possible. When you do decide to have the tooth replaced, you will be given different options. Two of the most popular that patients find themselves choosing between are dental implants and dental bridges.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are dental appliances that involve a titanium rod being placed in the jawbone that is then attached to a false tooth via an abutment. Sometimes dental implants hold more than one tooth, and have more than one rod installed.

Dental implants are an excellent replacement option because of their longevity, strength, durability and appearance. Implants can look very similar to natural teeth, and can return a lot of the functionality involved in chewing and biting. Implants are more comprehensive to install, and are not for everyone.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are dental appliances that involve a pontic (false tooth or set of teeth) held in place to bridge the gap where a tooth or teeth are missing. While there are different options for dental bridges, the most common bridge is the traditional bridge. This form of dental bridge involves the reshaping of the teeth on either side of the cap so a false crown (abutment) can be placed to hold the pontic.

Dental bridges provide a good level of support, and also look aesthetically pleasing, but they are not as strong and durable as dental implants.

Why Replace a Tooth?

Whether you go with a dental implant or a dental bridge, it is extremely important to replace a missing tooth. While many people believe that a missing tooth is simply a cosmetic issue, it is actually much more than that. Not only can a missing tooth be unsightly, but it can also be dangerous to a patient’s oral health.

Many patients find that, without having their missing tooth replaced, the surrounding teeth begin to migrate. This migration can lead to crowding, impacting of healthy teeth, gum disease, infection, decay and more. Plus, the crowding is just as unsightly as the missing tooth.

In order to ensure your ongoing oral health, it’s important to replace any missing teeth as soon as possible. If you have a tooth or teeth missing, set an appointment with your dentist for as soon as possible to have the missing tooth replaced.

Which Option Is Right for Me?

While both dental implants and bridges have their benefits, the choice will need to be made between the two when it comes time to replace a missing tooth. Dental bridges are less expensive upfront, but they don’t generally last as long and aren’t as durable. Dental implants, on the other hand, are very durable, but also more expensive upfront. Also, some patients are unable to have implants placed due to physical limitations. Speak with your dentist about which replacement option is right for your needs and budget.

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Learn More About Dental Implants : How Long Does it Take to Get Dental Implants?

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