Dental Implant vs. Dental Bridge
If you are in search of a dental treatment to replace a missing tooth you are in luck. Today, there are many tooth replacement treatment options available to you. But, sometimes this large number of options can be overwhelming when you are trying to select which treatment is right for you. Below we compare two of the most popular tooth replacement treatment options: fishers dental implants indiana and dental bridges.
Dental Implants
Dental implant treatment is quickly becoming the most popular treatment solution to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant is a metal or ceramic post that is surgically installed into the jawbone. This post acts as the stable support structure, or the root of the new tooth, and an artificial crown is securely fitted on top. Unfortunately, to get a dental implant, it is required that you have healthy gums and jawbones for the implant to be secure and successful. Even if you do not have healthy gums and bones, you may still qualify for the treatment, but an extra procedure such as bone grafting, may be required.
Dental Bridge
In the past, a dental bridge was the most common option for tooth replacement. A bridge is an artificial prosthetic that is attached to the adjacent teeth on each side of the missing teeth. For the dentist to install the bridge, the nearby teeth will need to be prepared. This preparation involves filing down the enamel of those teeth to help fit the bridge. A bridge maybe a good option if the nearby teeth have fillings or will need restorations in the future.
What Will Last Longer?
With their secure placement in the jawbone, a dental implant is by far the more secure and permanent option. Once an implant is installed and has fused successful with the bone, it becomes just like a natural tooth. A dental bridge can have a secure fit, but over time it will likely become loose or need repair. On average, dental bridges last about 10 years. Additionally, the implant posts are made of titanium or ceramic, meaning they do not breakdown over time.
What is the Difference in Cost?
Initially, a dental bridge will require a smaller investment. But it is important to keep in mind that a dental bridge will last approximately 10 years before needing to be replaced or repaired. A dental implant will be a larger investment upfront, but will last decades if not forever, making it a more cost-conscious choice in the long run.
If you are trying to decide between a dental bridge or a dental implant, there are many factors to consider, including how many teeth you want to replace, the health of your gums and jaw, if you have health insurance, and the skillset of your dental provider. Each tooth replacement solution has pros and cons to consider. The best way to select the right treatment for you is to start by doing a little research and then sit down with your provider and have a discussion.