Dental Implants Vs. Bridges: Which is Better?

When you face the reality of a missing tooth or several, the options before you can be overwhelming. The void left by a lost tooth is more than a mere cosmetic concern; it affects your overall dental health and functionality. In the realm of restorative dentistry, two prominent solutions stand out: dental implants and bridges.
 

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants have revolutionized the way missing teeth are treated. They offer a permanent solution that closely mimics natural teeth, both in appearance and functionality. An implant is essentially a titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as an artificial root. Over time, this post fuses with your bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for the replacement tooth, or crown, that will be attached later.
 

The placement of dental implants is a multi-step process. It begins with a thorough evaluation of your oral health to ascertain that you have sufficient bone density to support the implant. If you do, the implant post is inserted into the jawbone and allowed to heal. Once integration with the bone is confirmed, an abutment is placed on top of the implant, which will hold the crown in place.
 

One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is their longevity. With proper care, an implant can last a lifetime, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run. Moreover, implants help preserve your jawbone and prevent the deterioration that often follows tooth loss. This not only benefits your oral health but also maintains the natural shape of your face.
 

What is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are held in place by dental crowns that are anchored onto the adjacent healthy teeth. Bridges are custom-made to blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring your smile and the ability to chew and speak properly.
 

The process of getting a dental bridge typically requires two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, the teeth adjacent to the gap are prepared; they are reshaped to receive the crowns that will support the bridge. Impressions of your teeth are taken to craft a bridge that fits perfectly in your mouth. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the exposed areas while your permanent bridge is being made. On your second visit, the temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is adjusted to ensure a proper fit before it is cemented into place.
 

While bridges are less invasive and have a quicker treatment time than implants, they do require the alteration of healthy teeth. This can potentially lead to a need for future dental work on these teeth. Additionally, bridges do not address bone loss in the jaw, which can continue to occur beneath the pontic, potentially leading to changes in facial structure over time.
 

Factors to Consider: Dental Implants Vs Bridges

Choosing between dental implants and bridges is not a decision to be taken lightly. Several key factors need to be considered to determine which option is more suitable for your situation. These factors include the health of your jawbone, the location of the missing tooth, your overall oral health, treatment time, cost, and the longevity of the solution.
 

When it comes to addressing a missing tooth and cosmetic dentistry, dental implants offer distinct benefits. They provide a solution that is as close to your natural teeth as possible. Implants are designed to blend in with your existing teeth, offering an aesthetic advantage that is unrivaled by other treatment options. Furthermore, the ability of implants to preserve bone and prevent deterioration is a significant benefit for maintaining your facial structure and oral health.
 

Schedule a Consultation with Wanlass Dental Today

As you consider your options for missing tooth and cosmetic dentistry, it is essential to consult with a dental professional who can guide you through the decision-making process. They will assess your specific situation and help you determine which procedure is best for your individual needs.
 

If you're ready to explore your options further or to determine if a dental implant are right for you, visit Wanlass Dental at our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, or call (702) 367-4412 to schedule a consultation today.