Modern dentistry offers several effective options for replacing missing teeth. Two popular solutions are permanent bridges and dental implants. Both have unique benefits and considerations, but the decision to choose a permanent bridge vs. dental implants should be based on individual needs and preferences.
What is a Permanent Bridge?
A permanent bridge in dentistry is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth definitively to adjacent teeth or dental implants. It involves creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between. These crowns, attached to the false tooth, bridge the gap. This solution restores the functionality and appearance of missing teeth, supports facial structure, and prevents remaining teeth from shifting.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the bone, a process known as osseointegration, a dental prosthetic such as a crown, is attached to it. Implants provide a stable and durable foundation for artificial teeth, offering a natural look and feel, improving oral health, and preventing bone loss in the jaw area.
Permanent Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Permanent Dental Bridges offer a non-surgical, cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth, suitable for patients seeking a quicker treatment timeline. They’re particularly beneficial if adjacent teeth require crowns or have large fillings, as bridges can provide additional support.
Dental implants, in contrast, are known for preserving jawbone health and do not depend on surrounding teeth for support. They offer a more natural tooth-like experience and, with proper care, have the potential to last a lifetime.
Dental implants also present a more permanent solution. They consist of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial root, and a crown attached to this post. This provides the appearance and function of a natural tooth. Implants offer several benefits over bridges, but they require good bone structure for placement, and the procedure is far more complicated, including a healing period that can last several months.
Consult Your Dentist For The Best Choice
Ultimately, the choice between a permanent bridge vs. dental implants should be made in consultation with your dentist. They can assess your oral health, discuss your preferences and lifestyle, and recommend the best option for your specific situation. Both bridges and implants have successfully restored smiles for millions of people, and understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make an informed decision toward achieving a healthy, confident smile.
- Health of Adjacent Teeth: If the surrounding teeth are healthy, an implant might be preferred to preserve their integrity. However, if these teeth have large fillings or are in need of crowns, a bridge could serve as a dual solution.
- Bone Density: Adequate jawbone density is crucial for an implant. If bone loss has occurred, a bridge might be a more feasible option without additional procedures like bone grafting.
- Cost and Time Consideration: Bridges are less expensive initially than implants and can be completed in a shorter timeframe. Implants, though more costly upfront, are a long-term investment that can prevent future dental issues and expenses.
- Aesthetic and Functional Needs: Implants offer a more natural look and feel, closely mimicking real teeth in appearance and function. Bridges are also aesthetically pleasing but don’t prevent bone loss in the jaw.
- Patient Preference and Lifestyle: Personal preference, lifestyle, and readiness to undergo surgery also play significant roles in this decision.
Contact McOmber Dental for Dental Implants and Bridges
Our practice is called comprehensive dentistry because our highly-trained staff can cater to almost all your dental needs in one setting. Whether you need dental implants or a bridge, we can take care of you. Additionally, Dr. McOmber is among a handful of dentists in New Jersey to have earned the state sedation permit, meaning that you can rest easy during any dental procedure. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or consultation.