Choosing Between a Dental Bridge and Dental Implant

Dental Implants and dental bridges are two popular options and the best option for you will depend on the kind of person you are along with your needs and oral health. A skilled Mt. Prospect orthodontic specialist can help determine which option may be considered the best for you if you’re seeking advice. Let’s explore about the differences between dental bridges and dental implants, to help you make the right choice for your smile.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a type of dental prosthetics that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. This is made up of one or more artificial teeth called pontics that are attached to adjacent healthy natural teeth or implants. The adjacent teeth used to support the bridge, called abutments, are typically filed down to accept the bridge.

The advantages of dental bridges include:

Prompt And Not Invasive: This is generally quicker to do than implants and also requires much less invasive surgery as compared to implants.

Cost: Dental bridges are often less expensive than dental implants, making them a more economical choice for tooth replacement.

Restores Appearance: Bridges restore the look of teeth, but also their function in chewing and speaking.

Dental bridges do come with some downsides, though. For instance, the nearby natural teeth that serve as support structures have to undergo modification, which could result in damage to those teeth in the long run. Bridges, for example, do not last as long as implants and may need to be replaced after a few years.

What Is a Dental Implant?

An implant consists of a titanium post that the dentist surgically embeds in the jawbone, replacing the root of the missing tooth. The implant is fused to the bone in a process called osseointegration, and a crown is placed on top of it to finish the restoration process.

Advantages to dental implants:

Durable: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifelong. Because they integrate with the bone, they provide a long-lasting, stable solution to missing teeth.

Aesthetically Pleasing: Just like natural teeth, implants look and function seamlessly.

Maintains Jawbone Density: The implant will stimulate the jawbone and prevent the loss of bone that happens with tooth loss.

Preserves Adjacent Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, dental implants do not affect adjacent teeth, protecting their natural structure.

That being said, dental implants also come with a couple of considerations. The surgery can be scary for some people. Moreover, dental implants may distort talking, particularly in challenging circumstances, such as when the dental implant has not yet meshed with the jaw bone.

What to Frame a Decision Between a Dental Bridge vs Implant

When choosing between a dental bridge and dental implant, the following factors should be taken under consideration:

Cost: If you are priced-sensitive, a dental bridge may be the preferred choice. But if you’re looking for a solution that lasts, a dental implant may be worth the additional expense.

Oral health: If you have healthy surrounding teeth and they are strong enough to support a bridge, that may be a viable option. If your jawbone is strong and there are no underlying issues with the surrounding teeth, a dental implant could be the best option.

Endurance: Dental implants last longer and offer a stronger solution For a longer-term solution, implants are generally the better option.

Timeline: Bridges typically take less time to place and less time to recover. If you want things to move quickly, a bridge might be a better fit.

While both options can be tailored to match your natural teeth, implants are typically considered to result in a more aesthetic appearance, and options that offer improved comfort and functionality.

Conclusion:

Choosing between a dental bridge and a dental implant is a very important decision that should be taken after careful consideration. A reputable Mt. Prospect orthodontist can advise you on your options based on your oral health, personal preferences, and budget. Whether you need a short-term fix or a long-term, permanent solution, your orthodontist will help you find what's best for your situation.

Dr. Adelina is the author of this article. To know more about Arlington Heights clear aligner, please visit our website: nak4smiles.com