Dental implants and bridges are two common options to replace missing teeth. Both aim to improve your smile and restore your bite and speech functions. However, each has its advantages and disadvantages. The best way to decide is to talk to your dentist, such as this dentist in Markham, to see what best suits your needs.
Read on to learn more.
Dental Implants: A Quick Glance
These are artificial tooth roots that support a restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. They are small and look like a screw, made of titanium or zirconia placed in the jawbone to act as anchors for the new teeth through surgery.
However, this dental procedure is not for everybody. There are factors your dentist needs to consider for you to be a good candidate. These include:
- Overall good oral and physical health
- Enough bone in your jaw to support the implant
- Healthy gum tissue
- Commitment to keeping up with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits
In case of missing teeth and you’re considering dental implants, discuss with your dentist the above factors to ensure that dental implants are the best treatment option for you.
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are several advantages of implants that make them a popular choice, including:
- They look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
- They’re durable and can last more than 25 years with proper care.
- They’re easy to care for—brush and floss as you would with natural teeth.
- They can help prevent jaw bone loss.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
Along with the benefits, implants also come with drawbacks, including:
- They’re a more expensive option, both initially and over time.
- The surgery required for placement can be complex, so it’s essential to consult with an experienced dentist.
- They require a longer healing time than other options, such as bridges.
- They are not for everybody. Certain health conditions can make the surgery more complicated.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are another option to replace missing teeth. Unlike implants, which are surgically placed in the jawbone, bridges are supported by the neighboring natural teeth or implants. They come with two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (pontic) in between. The false tooth is attached to the crowns, filling the space where your tooth is missing.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Like dental implants, there are also several benefits that come with choosing a dental bridge over implants, which include:
- They’re less expensive than implants.
- The surgery required is less invasive, and the recovery time is shorter.
- The entire process takes about two weeks to complete.
- They’re a good option for people who can’t have implants for various reasons, such as health conditions or insufficient bone density.
Drawbacks of Dental Bridges
However, there are also some disadvantages to dental bridges that you should be aware of before making a decision, such as:
- They’re not as durable as implants and typically only last about 5 to 7 years.
- They require more maintenance than implants.
- They can cause damage to the neighboring teeth.
- They don’t prevent bone loss like implants.
Choosing Between Dental Implants and Bridges
The best way to do before deciding is to consult with your dentist. They will examine your mouth, take X-rays, and discuss your potential options, including their benefits and risks. Also, they can recommend other dental procedures that help you achieve optimum results. Whatever options you choose, consider your budget, needs, and preferences before making a decision.
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