“Should I get dental implants or bridges? What’s better for me?” That’s a common question many individuals ask when undergoing a tooth replacement procedure. When it comes to dental treatments, people usually opt for the ones that are less complicated and are not very expensive. Dental problems like losing a tooth require proper treatment to keep the rest of your teeth aligned.
Tooth loss is widespread among 69% of adults aged 35 to 44 who have lost at least one adult tooth. About a quarter of Americans lose all adult teeth by age 74.
Losing teeth can significantly impact your smile’s appearance while creating functionality issues. It can also put a severe dent in your self-confidence. There are several causes for tooth loss, including decay, injury, periodontal disease, or genetics.
When replacing missing teeth, you’ve got two of the most common options: dental implants and bridges. But what’s better?
While both techniques fundamentally address the same issue, considering what’s better- Implants or Bridges is the major challenge. You must understand the treatment options better if looking for the perfect solution for your missing teeth.
Here in this blog, you find out whether implants are better than bridges and which procedure suits your dental needs perfectly.
Are Implants Better Than Bridges?
Before deciding whether implants are better than bridges, you must understand how each dental restoration solution works. Let’s break down dental implants and bridges for better knowledge.
What Is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are the most preferred treatment for missing teeth to replace the crown and root of a tooth, making implants much more stable.
A dental implant is primarily an artificial tooth root made of a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth root.
This procedure can take up to six months to complete, but it forms an exceptionally stable and long-lasting prosthetic. Once the implant merges with the bone, your dental expert will attach a temporary crown to fill in the void space left by the missing tooth. The dental implant procedure is complete when a permanent crown replaces the temporary one.
Dental implants might be your best choice if you have periodontal disease, an injury, or another reason for a lost tooth or teeth.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a false tooth or pontic supported by two dental crowns placed over the adjoining teeth.
As the name implies, dental bridges or the pontic basically “bridges” the gap left by the missing tooth. Bridges have the appearance of natural teeth that can help you restore both functionality and aesthetics of your mouth, your self-confidence, and your beautiful smile.
Difference Between Implants and Bridges
Dental implants and bridges are popular treatment solutions for replacing one or more teeth, but they also have some key differences.
A dental implant replaces the root and the crown, i.e., your entire tooth. Whereas a dental bridge only replaces the crown.
An experienced dentist is the one who can determine which option is best for you, depending on your oral health condition.
Dental Implants and Bridges: Pros and Cons
The question continues, are implants better than bridges? Here’s a glimpse of some pros and cons of dental implants vs. bridges.
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Dental Implants: Pros
There are various benefits to getting dental implants. Here are just a few of them.
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Dental implants are firm and natural-looking.
If taken proper care of, dental implants can last you a lifetime as they are placed directly into the jawbone. Dental implants give you a feel and look just like your natural teeth.
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Dental implants can help you improve your oral health.
Unlike bridges, dental implants do not put additional pressure on your adjacent teeth, which helps improve your oral health.
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Dental implants revive your chewing and biting ability.
Dental implants are ideal for reviving your natural chewing and biting capacity as they replace your entire tooth rather than capping it off with a crown.
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Dental Implants: Cons
Reading about those benefits, you might think, “are implants better than bridges?” There are a few disadvantages as well.
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Dental implants need surgery.
There’s a slight risk of bleeding, infection, and nerve damage, as dental implants require minor surgery. But an experienced dental professional can help you avoid this risk.
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Dental implants only suit some.
You require enough bone density in your jaw to support the implant for a successful procedure. If you lack the required bone density, you may undergo bone grafting before getting dental implants.
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Dental implants are expensive.
Dental implants are usually more expensive than bridges. However, it is a lifetime investment, while bridges generally need replacements.
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Dental Bridges: Pros
Here are some of the benefits of dental bridges.
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Dental bridges are less invasive.
Unlike dental implants, dental bridge treatment can take place without any extensive surgery.
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The dental bridges procedure requires only a few weeks for placement.
Dental implants may require several months to heal, but your dentist usually needs only a few short weeks to place dental bridges.
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Dental bridges are cost-effective.
Since dental bridges don’t require an additional procedure, they cost much less than a dental implant.
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Dental Bridges: Cons
Before you conclude whether implants are better than bridges or vice versa, consider some of the following disadvantages.
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Dental bridges require the support of your adjacent teeth.
Unlike dental implants, dental bridges depend on your surrounding teeth for support. Putting extra stress on these teeth can lead to further damage.
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Dental bridges only last for a short period.
Dental bridges usually need replacement every few years, while dental implants can last a lifetime if taken care of properly.
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Dental bridges might only be suitable for some.
For a successful dental bridge treatment, you must have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap created by the missing tooth.
Are Implants Better Than Bridges for You?
Are dental implants better than bridges? Which treatment do you prefer for your dental condition?
In most circumstances, the best option is the procedure your dental expert recommends based on your health, needs, and lifestyle. I want you to know that dental implants and bridges have pros and cons, so please discuss your concerns with your dentist before deciding which is better, an implant or a bridge.
At MPLS Dental, we understand that it can be nervous for some to visit a dentist. But don’t worry – we guarantee to make your visit as pleasant as possible.
The MPLS Dental team focuses on providing the best dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. If you are still trying to decide what’s ideal for you- implants or bridges, Call us at 612-332-1255 or schedule a consultation now!
We’d love to discuss options for replacing your missing teeth or dental problems and helping you smile brighter.
