Dental implants and bridges are popular options for the replacement of missing teeth. Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed in the jaw bone and act as artificial roots for replacement teeth. Dental bridges are artificial teeth that are held in place by surrounding teeth.
So, which is better? It depends on your situation. Read on to find out
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants or teeth implants are tiny, screw-like metal posts that dentists or oral surgeons insert into a patient’s jaw bone through oral surgery. They are usually made of titanium but can also be made from zirconia.
Their main function is to act as artificial tooth roots for the false teeth that replace missing teeth. Teeth implants are also used to support dental bridges, dentures, and dental crowns.
During your surgical procedure, your dentist doesn’t need to grind down adjacent teeth, which is required when getting a dental bridge. This is one of its most significant advantages, making it a more tooth-friendly option.
What Are Bridges?
Dental bridges are artificial teeth that fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They are usually made from porcelain or ceramic materials but can also be made from metal or a combination of materials.
Bridges are held in place by crowns attached to the surrounding teeth. Your dentist needs to grind the adjacent healthy teeth to place a bridge.
Which Treatment Is Faster?
Dental implants don’t usually require specialised tools or devices for cleaning. You can brush and floss them just like your natural teeth. The only concern with this treatment is that the surrounding gum tissue needs to be kept healthy to avoid periodontal disease that causes failure.
On the other hand, dental bridges need to be cleaned with floss, an interdental brush or an oral irrigator to remove food debris and plaque from the hard-to-reach areas. Otherwise, the teeth where the bridge is anchored may decay, and the bridge may come loose. Bone loss and loose teeth are also consequences of failure to keep the bridge clean.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Dental implants are designed to last for a long time. On average, their lifespan is 20 to 30 years, but they may last for a lifetime with proper care. In comparison, bridges can last at least 5 to 7 years, but some can even reach up to 15 years, depending on the material used and maintenance.
What Treatment Costs More?
Overall, dental implants cost more than bridges. Their average cost for a single tooth may range between $4,000 to $6,000. At the same time, you may expect to pay up to $11,000 per implant if you need additional procedures like a bone grafting or sinus lift.
The average cost of dental bridges with two crowns ranges from $4,500 to $6,100. Note that this amount is an estimate and can go lower or higher, depending on your case.
Despite the high cost of implants, they can be a long-term investment that significantly impacts the quality of your life. For instance, if you have been embarrassed by your smile for years due to tooth loss, getting implants can give you the confidence to show your teeth in public. It can improve your bite and address chewing problems brought on by spaces between your teeth. Your oral health can also be improved since there will be fewer gaps where plaque can accumulate. Plaque increases the risk of tooth decay. Most importantly, dental implants provide replacement teeth that are strong and stable. This dental procedure allows you to eat normally without worrying about slipping or loosening teeth.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants and bridges are effective tooth replacement options for missing teeth. However, both have pros and cons that make the other a better choice. If you are looking for a more affordable procedure, bridges may be a good option. However, implants may be a better choice if you seek long-term treatment. The benefits you can get for many years outweigh the upfront cost you will initially pay.
If you are unsure, contact Peel Dental Studio for an initial consultation. We equipped our dental clinic with the latest technology to help our team provide efficient dental services, including implants and bridges. During your appointment, your dentist will evaluate your oral condition and develop a customised treatment plan. They will also discuss both treatment options, their benefits and drawbacks, and what you can expect. They will take time to answer any questions you have regarding these treatments. This way, you can make an informed decision for your dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Though very effective in replacing missing and broken teeth, dental implants are not for everyone. The following patients are not indicated for dental implants.
- Patients with active gum disease or tooth decay. These dental problems can cause implant failure. These must be addressed first before getting implants.
- Patients with insufficient jaw bone to support the titanium post. In such cases, a bone graft is needed to compensate for bone loss.
- Patients with chronic medical conditions or those taking medications that can make it difficult for you to heal.
- Patients below 18 years old
- Pregnant women
Though it is an invasive procedure, the surgery shouldn’t hurt because you will receive anaesthesia. You may feel discomfort and pain after the effects of anaesthesia wear off, but it should not be severe and persistent for many weeks.
This dental restoration procedure is expensive because of the materials and the process involved. Aside from the expensive titanium post, the dental implant procedure involves many procedures, like diagnostic tests, implant surgery, anaesthesia, and post-operative care. Most of all, the recovery period can take up to several months, which means more professional fees for your dentist because you have to visit them frequently, and they are required to monitor your progress throughout your treatment.
Tooth implants can replace one or more teeth. It can even replace an entire arch of teeth. Your dentist will determine the number of implants you need, depending on how many teeth are missing and the condition of your jaw bone.
from
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