Dental Implants vs. Bridge: Which is Right For You?

February 14th 2020 by Mills Haven Dental

Have you recently had a tooth extraction, or are you due for one? In either case, it's recommended that you speak with your dentist about replacement options for your missing tooth.

Whether you have an existing missing tooth from prior, or you're about to get a number of teeth removed, you may wish to consider the options of dental implants, or a dental bridge.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent posts installed into the gum lines, typically made with titanium. They are created to act as replacement tooth roots, and their primary functions are to anchor and support fixed (permanent), or removable artificial replacement teeth.

With dental implants, you can chew and bite as per normal again.

Keep in mind, not everyone's dental conditions are eligible for dental implant surgery. A strong jaw bone foundation and structure is required for this operation. It's highly recommended that you speak with your dentist about whether you are suitable for dental implants surgery.

When should you get dental implants?

Dental implants are a great solution to missing teeth.

You may wish to consider getting dental implants in the following cases:

• You have one or more missing teeth.
• You're unable or unwilling to wear dentures.
• You have a speech impediment that would improve with getting dental implants.

Benefits

If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants can help to improve:

• Appearance
• Speech
• Comfort
• Eating
• Self-Esteem
• Oral Health
• Durability
• Convenience

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge uses surrounding teeth as support to create a bridge for a gap between your teeth. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth, or by dental implants. The procedure can take a number of months as two or more trips may be required.

The two anchoring teeth required for a dental bridge are referred to as 'abutment teeth'. The adjacent abutment teeth may need to be filed down for the dental bridge to fit properly. The artificial tooth in between the two abutment teeth is called a 'pontic'. Pontics can be created from gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of materials.

Types of Dental Bridges

1. Traditional (the most common dental bridge type; when there are two natural abutment teeth for the dental bridge to be created)
2. Cantilever (when a dental crown is cemented to only one abutment tooth, so only one natural tooth is needed for the dental bridge)
3. Maryland (uses a framework of either metal or porcelain that is bonded onto the backs of the abutment teeth)
4. Implant-Supported (often used when multiple teeth require crowns to support a dental bridge)

When should you get a dental bridge?

Tooth decay can spread to surrounding teeth, and tooth loss can impact your jaw structure, eating habits, and your overall oral health.

In the case of severe tooth decay or total loss, here are some benefits and reasons to get a dental bridge:

• Chewing and biting properly again
• Maintaining face shape
• Restoring speech and pronunciation
• Readjusting your teeth
• Preventing your remaining teeth from moving around

Dental Implants vs. Bridge: Which Should You Choose?

Both dental implants and dental bridges are great alternatives to achieve the look of natural teeth, and to replace missing teeth. But which is right for you?

While both procedures will require multiple trips to the dentist, a dental bridge may need to be replaced every 5-15 years, whereas implants are a permanent solution.

It is highly recommended that you speak with your dentist directly about whether dental implants or a dental bridge would be best suited for you.

If you still have questions about Dental Implants and Dental Bridge, Mills Haven Dental is always happy to answer your questions. Contact us today to book an appointment!