Bridge, Dentures, Or Dental Implants?

It is estimated that 70% of adults between 35 and 44 years old have lost at least one adult tooth, and by the age of 74, a quarter of Americans have lost all of their adult teeth.

After losing a tooth, it is necessary to get a replacement to keep the rest of your teeth aligned. It also helps to maintain your facial shape to provide a perfect and long-lasting smile and to avoid difficulties while eating or speaking.

In this blog, we will discuss which dental prosthesis is the best treatment for replacing missing or lost teeth based on your situation and overall health condition.

Which To Choose Dental Implants Vs. Bridges & Dentures

Different types of Dentures, bridges, and dental implants are the three most reliable treatment options for a lost or missing tooth.

But to immediately answer the question of which treatment is better, then dental implants are the best tooth replacement method, without question.

The bottom line is that dental implants replace the lost tooth root in the jaw, which prevents bone loss, tooth movement, gum disease, and further tooth loss from occurring in the future.

Prosthetics like dental bridges replace the tooth aesthetically and cause unnecessary damage to otherwise healthy teeth in the process, offering patients a short-term solution instead of a long-term fixed option.

Factors To Consider To Choose The Best Dental Treatment

Making an appointment with a dentist can advise you on the best tooth replacement for your missing or lost tooth, depending on your situation.

Your dentist will recommend dental treatment based on these conditions to determine the best option for you.

• Number of missing teeth

If you have missing teeth that are more than one consecutive tooth, a dental bridge is likely to be a better option than dental implants.

For each missing tooth, a separate implant needs to be surgically attached to your jawbone, leading to expensive and often impractical surgery.

• Overall health

Dental prosthesis requires surgery, so they may not be an option for people who have any existing medical conditions that can slow down their healing, such as (diabetes or leukemia).

The best candidates for dental prosthesis are people with great overall health and have a jawbone free of decay that is healthy enough to support the implant.

• Time

The entire process of getting a cosmetic dental treatment can take months, while a dental bridge can be easily installed in two trips to your dentist and spread over a couple of weeks.

When getting cosmetic dental treatment, an oral surgeon drills a hole to attach the root of an implant to the bone.

Then, they will insert a temporary denture while you wait for the bone to heal. You’ll then have to wait at least from 2 to 6 months.

• Cost

If you have dental insurance, it is likely to cover a dental bridge than a dental implant.

If you don’t have insurance and both options are out of your budget, then your dentist may recommend you to have a partial denture.

Difference Between Bridges, Dentures, And Dental Implants

You must know the differences, advantages, and disadvantages to find the best option according to your situation.

• Dental Implants

It is one of the most popular dental treatments and the ideal solution performed by dental professionals or surgeons for replacing missing or lost teeth.

A dental implant is a metallic structure used to replace a missing tooth and to fill the gap between teeth caused by the missing tooth.

With screw-like devices, the surgeon inserts and transplants into the jawbone, which acts as an anchor for an artificial tooth called a crown.

Implants are generally manufactured from Titanium, a metal that is compatible with body tissues and can bond with adjacent bones during healing.

In recent years, implants made from Zirconia, which is white rather than metallic in color, have bone-bonding qualities similar to those of Titanium, which has become popular and has been shown to be as effective as titanium implants.

Benefits Of Choosing Dental Implants

There are various benefits of choosing dental implants if you have missing or lost teeth.

• Preserves your facial structure
• Protects healthy teeth
• Restore your smile
• Long-lasting solution
• You can eat anything you want
• Improves your speech
• Boosts self-esteem
• Stable and comfortable

• Bridges

A dental bridge consists of false teeth and crowns that cover natural teeth. As the name implies, it bridges the gap between the teeth by replacing missing teeth and restoring chewing function.

This helps improve overall oral health and enhance appearance. Many dental insurance plans cover the bridge’s cost, and many are now covering implants as well.

A dental bridge may needed to be replaced every 5 to 10 years, depending on its care, while implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.

There are certain factors that can reduce the life span of bridges, including implants, such as dental hygiene and oral care.

Things To Remember While Choosing Bridges

The supported bridge does not stimulate the natural growth of the bone beneath it, which causes the bone to deteriorate over time.

Bridges generally fail after 5 -10 years because they are difficult to floss, which makes the root below and around the bridge highly susceptible to tooth decay.

• Partial Dentures

It is a plate with one or more false teeth, which may be made of plastic or a mix of plastic and metal. Both types may have clips to keep the denture in your mouth in place.

Depending on where they are, some of the denture clips may show when you smile or open your mouth.

They are a set of removable false teeth that are made up of acrylic (plastic), nylon, or metal. They perfectly fit over the gums to replace missing teeth and eliminate a variety of potential problems caused by gaps.

Dentures may help to prevent problems with eating and speaking. If you need a complete denture, it can enhance your appearance, giving you symmetrical teeth and a perfect smile that boosts confidence.

Things To Remember While Choosing Dentures

Partial dentures are not as stable and comfortable as dental implants, and they can affect your eating and speech. This restoration is less expensive but doesn’t look as natural or function like dental implants.

The bone beneath a removable denture may deteriorate over some time, changing the appearance of your smile and face.

Key Takeaways

Dental implants, bridges, and dentures are three options for replacing a missing tooth. Bridges are more likely to be covered by your insurance company at a lower cost than others.

But, if cost and time are not an issue for you and your overall health is good, then dental implants may be the best option for you.

However, a dentist or a dental professional may be able to advise you on the best dental treatment by examining your oral and health conditions.

‘Dacula Dental’ understands the importance of having a perfect smile, and we strive to ensure your dental and overall oral well-being.

Our friendly atmosphere is crafted to provide comfort and relaxation for each of our patients. Our dental professionals are committed to assist you in obtaining and preserving a vibrant and a healthier smile.

 The Road To A Confident Smile Starts Here

FAQs

1. What are dental implants and how do they work?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made of titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, the bone fuses with the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.

2. How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or more. Many last a lifetime. Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding tobacco are key factors in maximizing their lifespan.

3. Are dental implants painful?

Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the implant procedure. Local anesthesia is used, and post-surgery pain is usually managed with over-the-counter medication. Many say it’s less painful than a tooth extraction.

4. How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implant costs vary, but in the U.S., a single implant typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000. This includes the implant post, abutment, and crown. Full-mouth restorations can be significantly higher depending on complexity.

5. How long does it take to get a dental implant?

The full process can take 3 to 6 months or longer. It includes the initial consultation, implant placement, healing period for bone integration, and finally attaching the crown. Immediate-load implants may shorten the timeline in certain cases.

6. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Ideal candidates have healthy gums, sufficient jawbone, and are in good overall health. If you’ve lost teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease, implants may be an excellent option especially if you’re not comfortable with dentures or bridges.

7. What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures?

Implants are more stable, feel like natural teeth, and don’t slip while talking or eating. They also help preserve jawbone density, which dentures can’t do. Many patients find them more comfortable and confidence-boosting in the long term.

8. Do dental implants look natural?

Yes. Modern dental implants are custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Most people can’t tell the difference between an implant and a real tooth.

9. What is the recovery time after dental implant surgery?

Initial recovery from the implant surgery takes about 1 to 2 weeks. However, full osseointegration (when the implant fuses with the bone) can take several months before the permanent crown is placed.

10. Are there any risks or complications with dental implants?

Like any surgery, dental implants carry some risks such as infection, nerve damage, or implant failure. However, these are rare, especially when the procedure is performed by a skilled dentist or oral surgeon.

Referral Site –

Oral health Foundation [Bridges and partial dentures]