Choosing Between a Dental Bridge or Implants

Considering that there are so many treatment options for missing teeth nowadays, such as a dental bridges, it is necessary to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each one. People have chosen a dental bridge to replace lost teeth for years, but modern dentistry has made dental implants a more popular choice. When deciding between a dental implant and a fixed bridge, regardless of whether you have one or multiple lost teeth, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind.

The placement process

A dental implant or a dental bridge effectively replaces missing teeth, which is essential for oral health. A bridge is a false tooth supported by two dental crowns; installing the false tooth necessitates filing down the adjacent teeth. This meant that healthy teeth must be structurally altered to accommodate the crowns that hold the bridge.

Dental implants are titanium screws that are surgically implanted into the jaw, fusing with the bone and acting as prosthetic tooth roots. Since titanium is biocompatible, dental implants become a part of the patient's natural jaw structure, providing unparalleled support. Caps (crowns) are put on the titanium screws to complete the implant process. As a result, they prevent adjacent teeth from losing dental structure.

Candidacy

A bridge is a non-surgical dental treatment, while dental implants require surgery. A dental bridge may be advised when a patient has suffered considerable jawbone loss or injury. The procedure will be more straightforward, less unpleasant, and less costly in such cases. It is vital to understand that dental implant placement needs either existing healthy bone or a bone grafting operation if there is insufficient bone structure.

Durability

In comparison to implants, bridgework has a shorter lifespan. Bridges have a higher potential for failure because they are not secured as firmly as implants. A tooth that supports the bridgework, for example, is still vulnerable to decay, but an implant is decay-proof. Gum disease, on the other hand, may harm both. Either way, good dental hygiene is necessary.

Maintain jawbone form

Even after a bridge is placed, the bone that formerly held a tooth in place will degrade. An obvious alteration in the contours of the face might occur if many teeth are missing. A person may look older as a result of this. The ability of implants to preserve bone formation is a significant advantage. Although a bone graft may be required initially, the bone will be preserved as the metal settles. As a result, the jaw will retain its fullness and natural appearance.

Pricing

Dental implants often cost more than a bridge initially. But they last longer than permanent bridges and may be seen as a prudent long-term investment in oral health.

In conclusion

We hope that these considerations will help you make an educated choice regarding dental implants and a dental bridge. Each alternative has its own set of benefits that must be weighed to make an educated choice.

Request an appointment here: https://www.culvercitydental.com or call Culver City Dental at (310) 272-5405 for an appointment in our Culver City office.

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