Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridge: Which Is The Best Option?

Losing teeth can have a significant impact on the appearance of your smile and self-confidence. Missing teeth also affect other aspects of your life, which is why finding the right tooth replacement option is crucial for your smile and overall health. Two of the most commonly performed tooth replacement options are dental implants and dental bridges.

While both dental implants and dental bridges fundamentally replace missing teeth, both offer different benefits and are very different options to consider. If you are looking to replace missing or compromised teeth, it is essential to know your treatment options and what each option entails before deciding which is suitable for you. Let’s break down the key differences between dental implants and dental bridges.

Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

If you suffer from periodontal disease or missing teeth, dental implants are an excellent treatment option. A dental implant is a small post or screw, typically made of titanium, that is securely inserted into the natural jaw bone to act as the root of the tooth. An artificial tooth (crown) is then attached and supported by the post.

When a tooth is extracted or missing, the jawbone begins to deteriorate over time and changes the appearance of the face and smile. Dental implants are fixed into the jawbone. Using the new tooth and chewing helps stimulate bone regrowth, keeping the jawbone healthy and preventing it from shrinking.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer several advantages to those who are missing one or several teeth. One of the most beneficial advantages of dental implants is that they place less of a burden on surrounding teeth and promote healing of surrounding bone structure and gum tissue. Other advantages of dental implants include:

The most natural-looking results. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like a natural tooth.
Durable. With the proper care, dental implants are expected to last a lifetime. Be sure to regularly visit your dental professional to ensure the implant is healthy.
Little maintenance. Dental Implants require very little maintenance. You may continue to brush and floss normally twice a day as if it is your natural tooth.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

There are very few disadvantages when it comes to dental implants. Those disadvantages include:

Cost. Dental implant procedures typically tend to be a bit more expensive compared to dental bridges. However, due to their durability, dental implants are very cost-effective in the grand scheme of things.

Longer healing process. Oral surgery is typically required with dental implant procedures, and your mouth will need a few months to heal after the initial procedure. It may take up to six to eight months for dental implants to fully recover. However, once they are fully healed, the tooth will be fully functional as a natural tooth.

What You Need To Know About Dental Bridges

If you are missing a tooth between two healthy teeth, a dental bridge essentially bridges the gap between your teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth that is attached to the surrounding healthy teeth to replace the missing tooth. The two surrounding teeth are shaved down to accommodate the dental bridge.

Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can be made from several different materials. They often contain a combination of metals and porcelain or ceramics. The most popular materials used include gold, silver, porcelain, and porcelain-fused metals. Dental bridges made of porcelain or ceramic are then bonded to metal to improve the strength and functionality of the bridge.

Mainly, when patients are missing several teeth, dental implants are used to support the dental bridge.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

Some benefits of dental bridges include:

Does not require oral surgery. Dental bridges can easily replace missing teeth without the need for invasive surgery.

An effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth. Dental bridges help aid patients in speaking more fluently and allow them to chew and eat normally.

- Aesthetics. Dental bridges are designed to compensate for any original missing teeth fully. This helps to improve your self-esteem and overall confidence if you are uncomfortable with your appearance with missing teeth.

Comfort. Some patients prefer dental bridges because of how they feel in the mouth and their easy maintenance. Patients become accustomed to their dental bridge reasonably quickly.

Disadvantages of Dental Bridges

Some disadvantages of dental bridges include:

Not permanent. Unlike dental implants, dental bridges are not a permanent tooth replacement solution. Dental bridges do require to be replaced from time to time.

Compromise healthy surrounding teeth. The dental bridge placement requires the neighboring healthy teeth to be shaved down to support the bridge. The adjacent crowned teeth are also more likely to decay over time.

Less natural looking. Unlike dental implants, dental bridges do not give a natural-looking restoration. Patients often find that dental bridges are not aesthetically pleasing.

Bone loss. Unlike dental implants, which stimulate bone growth, dental bridges can cause bone deterioration. Since the surrounding teeth only support the dental bridge, bone loss may occur since the gap remains under the dental bridge.

Key Differences Between Dental Implants and Dental Bridges

As you can see, there are several differences between dental implants and dental bridges. The critical differences between the two:

Aesthetic. Dental implants give a natural-looking result, while dental bridges are much more noticeable.

Cost. Dental bridges may be less expensive than dental implants. However, dental implants are much more cost-effective and designed to last a lifetime.

Time. Dental bridges may be completed in two visits within a few weeks. Dental implants may take three to six weeks due to the healing process. However, they are securely inserted and designed to last a lifetime; therefore, there is no need for replacing the implant if no complications arise.

When choosing your teeth replacement option, it is essential to research and consult with your dental professional to understand your options. For more information about dental implants and dental bridges, contact us at (877) 830-5689.

FAQ

What are dental implants?

What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges are a suitable restorative option for patients with missing teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth that is attached to the surrounding healthy teeth. They are designed to compensate for any original missing tooth. This helps build your self-esteem and confidence.

How much are dental implants?

Every case is unique when it comes to dental implants. The cost of dental implants depends on the number of implants being used. The average cost of dental implants is between $3,000 and $5,000. This price includes the post, abutment, and crown. We understand that the price for dental implants may seem alarming, especially when compared to other tooth replacement options. However, dental implants are an investment. Implants are designed to last a lifetime with little to no maintenance.

Are dental implants painful?

The dental implant procedure is not painful since it is performed under general or local anesthesia to numb the area completely. Once the numbness wears off, patients may experience mild pain. Patients may expect slight swelling bur our specialists will provide you with antibiotics and painkillers to treat the swelling and pain.

Does dental insurance cover implants?

Before beginning your dental implant treatment, ask your dental professional for a pre-treatment estimate. This will allow you to see how much your dental insurance will cover and how much you will be responsible for.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper maintenance and care. With regular 6-month dental checkup maintenance, brushing, and flossing, the dental implant itself is designed to last a lifetime. The dental crown can last 10-15 years.

How much do dental bridges cost?

A bridge is generally less expensive than dental implants. However, the maintenance and complications with dental bridges are much more significant than dental implants. The average price for dental bridges ranges between $300 to $5,000, depending on the type of bridge you select. As with any dental procedure, it is essential to know what your dental plan covers.

How long does a dental bridge last?

Dental bridges can last anywhere from five to seven years, and by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dental professional, they can last up to ten years. However, it is recommended to replace or repair your dental bridge after the 10-year mark.

Are dental bridges permanent?

Depending on the type of bridge, dental bridges can either be fixed or removable. Fixed dental bridges are attached to dental implants. Removable dental bridges have dental crowns on either side of the gap attached to the healthy surrounding teeth.

How do you clean a dental bridge?

Dental bridges do require everyday proper cleaning and maintenance. Plaque and bacteria may begin to accumulate underneath the dental bridge, which is why it is best to use a floss threader or a super floss to clean under the bridge.

What is involved in a dental bridge?

Dental bridges are an alternative tooth replacement solution. A dental bridge is made of crowns on either side of the missing tooth or teeth and is cemented in place. The two crowns can be cemented to the surrounding healthy teeth for a removable dental bridge or anchored by two dental implants for a fixed dental bridge.

Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridge