Patients are often curious about the differences between a dental implant and a dental bridge. Both are popular options for replacing missing teeth, but they have distinct differences. Learn more about a dental implant vs bridge to help you decide which option suits you best.
Understanding Your Options
Dental implants provide a lasting solution for dental problems and missing teeth. A dental bridge connects to neighboring teeth to support missing teeth. We carefully assess patient needs to determine the best option between a dental implant vs bridge.
Dental Implants
Missing teeth can make people feel self-conscious about their appearance and affect their confidence levels. Dental implants offer a long-term solution for chronic dental issues and missing or failing teeth. Some dental patients might lean towards a bridge instead of an implant. We assess each patient’s oral health needs to find the best dental treatment option.
Dental implants mimic the function of a natural tooth root and closely resemble and feel like your own teeth. During the dental implant process, dentists surgically place titanium posts into the jawbone, which act as artificial tooth roots. After the bone fuses with the implant, we attach a custom-made crown for a natural-looking tooth replacement.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge relies on adjacent teeth to support the missing tooth. The process includes affixing crowns to your natural teeth and placing artificial teeth. This could involve modifying healthy teeth.
There are four types of dental bridges.
- Traditional bridges
- Cantilever bridges
- Resin-bonded bridge
- Implant-supported bridges
A bridge can be attached to nearby teeth and taken out or secured based on what suits your mouth and your dentist’s advice. A dental bridge can help fix a changed bite and prevent a change in facial features or wrinkles due to tooth loss. Contact your dentist for a check-up to figure out the best bridge option is right for you.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants offer a lasting solution, capable of lasting a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants can restore chewing abilities and improve speech. They offer several advantages, including improved dental appearance, better oral health, and increased comfort.
Durability
Dental implants anchor directly into the jawbone, providing a strong and durable foundation for replacement teeth. While the cost of dental implants can be more than dentures or a bridge, their durability and minimal upkeep make them a preferred choice for some dental patients. With proper care, an implant can last a lifetime.
Jawbone Preservation
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Placing dental implants in the jawbone helps stimulate bone growth and preserves bone density. Dental implants mimic how natural tooth roots function and slow bone and gum tissue shrinkage in missing tooth areas.
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants don’t require an alteration to nearby teeth. They keep your remaining teeth intact and boost your oral health. Dental implants give you the freedom to enjoy food without worrying about replacement teeth slipping or shifting while eating with new dentures. This allows for better chewing ability and proper digestion.
Natural Look and Feel
Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can cause slurred speech or difficulty speaking clearly. Dental implants provide a permanent solution. A customized dental crown attaches to the dental implant to match your surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color.
The Pros and Cons of a Dental Bridge
On the other hand, dental bridges are prosthetic teeth that are supported by adjacent healthy teeth. The dentist files down the two teeth on either side of the gap to make room for crowns that hold the artificial tooth in place. Dental bridges have successfully provided many benefits.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
- Cost-Effective: A dental bridge tends to be less expensive than a dental implant because it does not require surgery or multiple procedures.
- Quick Procedure: Placing a traditional dental bridge is much faster than the time required for a dental implant procedure. The length of the procedure depends on the type of bridge and the requirements of your dental work.
- No Surgery Required: Some patients may not be good candidates for surgery, making bridges a suitable alternative.
There is also a downside to choosing a dental bridge. They can pose a risk to adjacent teeth and are not as durable as dental implants. A dental bridge may also cause mouth discomfort or gum irritation for some wearers.
The Downside to a Dental Bridge
- Tooth Decay: Adjacent teeth may need to be filed down to accommodate a bridge. The teeth affected may be at risk of developing tooth decay or other dental issues.
- Less Durable: According to the Cleveland Clinic, a dental bridge can typically last between 5-15 years. The dental bridge may need to be replaced if it shows signs of wear or damage.
- Potential for Bone Loss: Since a bridge does not replace the root structure like dental implants do, they do not prevent bone loss in the jaw.
- Gum Irritation: Some patients may experience discomfort and irritation of gum tissue and the gum line while wearing a dental bridge.
Finding the Best Fit For You
Both dental implants and dental bridges have their strengths and weaknesses. Implants offer the best long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, however, every patient’s situation is unique. At Three Rivers Dental, we work with you to determine which option is best for your dental needs.
If you have any further questions about a dental implant vs bridge or would like to request an appointment, contact Three Rivers Dental Group. Call 1-855-NO FEARS to discuss your dental needs and schedule a dental visit in Cranberry, Greentree, Greensburg, or Jennerstown. We are here to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile.