The Right Choice for Missing Teeth - Dental Implants or Dental Bridges?

Did you know, according to a study, 69% of adults have lost at least one permanent tooth? The reason for tooth loss can be anything from an accident, dental decay, or simply age.

If you are someone who has lost their teeth or you know someone with missing teeth, then you might be aware of how it affects your eating habits, speech, and overall appearance of your face. But it is also essential to understand that it can have a domino effect and cause your other teeth to get loose and eventually fall out. Your best option to avoid this from happening is to get your missing teeth replaced

Dental Implants and Dental Bridges are the two most common treatments for replacing missing teeth. But what is the right choice for fixing your missing teeth? What should you go for Dental implants or Dental bridges? How to choose the correct option?

The answer to this is to visit a dental specialist.

But to get you started, here are the pros and cons of both options to help you make an informed decision.

Dental Implants: A dental implant is a metal post made of titanium. This screw-like structure is fixed with the jawbone to replace the underlying structure of your tooth and acts like its root. Once it is fused with the jawbone, the dentist will screw a crown on the top of the structure and seal it.

Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are false teeth placed in place of the missing teeth. These are made up of plastics or porcelain. A dental bridge eliminates the gap between missing teeth and it is supported by your natural teeth on both sides.

Now let us compare each point to help you understand better what to choose from among these two replacement options:

Surgery: As we read above, implants are fixed to the jawbones. If there is bone loss in the jaw, bone graft surgery might be required to have the appropriate bone density to place an implant.

Whereas, dental bridges are less invasive than surgery. It is fitted with the adjacent teeth between the gap with the dental crown to anchor the bridge in place. A dental bridge weakens the surrounding teeth in the long term.

Appearance: A dental bridge is more noticeable, whereas dental implants look more natural. Dental Bridges connect the teeth and are quite visible. A dental implant is independent of the other teeth, heightening the aesthetics.

Cost: The cost of dental implants can be higher than that of dental bridges as surgery can involved.

Time: The process of getting a dental bridge is done in 2-3 sittings, whereas, dental implants require a minimum of 3-6 months for the bone to heal before a crown can be added.

Health benefits: The jawbone starts to deteriorate when there is a missing tooth. A dental implant halts and reverses bone loss. Since dental implant requires surgery, they might not be a good option for patients with diabetes or leukemia.

A dental bridge may damage your remaining teeth to undergo significant preparation to accommodate a bridge.

Durability: A dental implant lasts a lifetime if regular dental hygiene is maintained properly. A dental bridge needs to be replaced every 5-7 years.

A missing teeth replacement specialist can help you analyze your option and choose the right option for you. Visit us at Dr. Kochar’s House of Smile to get back your missing teeth and a beautiful smile.