Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants

Posted: July 18, 2019 By: Comment: 0

Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants

Missing teeth are a cause for concern, but fortunately, dental bridges and implants are two viable options to fill the gap in your smile. What’s the difference between the two, and which one is right for you? Learn more about dental bridges vs. dental implants to help you decide.

What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are aptly named—they literally “bridge the gap” in your smile if you’re missing one or more teeth. A bridge is comprised of multiple parts: first, crowns cap the teeth on either side of the gap, known as the abutment teeth. Then, one or more false teeth, called pontics, are suspended between the crowns to replace the missing tooth or teeth. The false tooth may be made of porcelain, alloys, gold, or other materials.

If you opt for a dental bridge, your first visit with the dentist will involve preparing the abutment teeth by removing some of the enamel. This creates room to place crowns that serve as the anchors for the pontic(s) cemented between them. Next, your dentist takes an impression of your teeth to use as a model when creating custom pontics and crowns for your dental bridge. A temporary bridge protects your exposed teeth and gums until the permanent product is finished.

On your second visit, the dentist removes the temporary bridge and puts the new pontics and crowns in place. Temporary cement ensures a comfortable fit. After a few weeks, you return to the dentist one final time to have the bridge firmly cemented in place.

What is a Dental Implant?

In the past, dental bridges were the only option for replacing missing teeth. Today, a more advanced option known as a dental implant is also available.

With this restorative dentistry option, a titanium screw is surgically positioned into your jawbone beneath the gum line. This serves as the “root” for the new artificial tooth. A second appointment takes place after the screw has bonded to your jaw bone through a process called osseointegration. At that time, a connector is secured on top of the screw, and a natural-looking crown, usually made of ceramic, is cemented on top.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants

With these two viable restorative dentistry options to choose from, you might be unsure of which option is best for you. Consider the pros and cons of dental bridges vs. dental implants to help you make the correct choice.

Time

If you’re in a hurry to fix your smile, a dental bridge is the faster option. You can finish the procedure in two visits spaces within a few weeks of each other. In contrast, dental implants require a wait time of three to six months between implanting the titanium screw and topping it with a connector and crown. This gives the jaw bone time to grow around the screw before the procedure is completed.

Cost

In the debate between dental bridges vs. dental implants, cost is a significant consideration. In general, implants are more expensive than bridges, though your insurance coverage determines what you pay out of pocket. However, since implants last longer, they may actually be the more cost-effective option.

Durability

Dental implants usually last a lifetime. Dental bridges, on the other hand, typically last five to 15 years. A portion of your natural tooth remains under each crown, making a bridge more likely to fail over time. As long as you maintain meticulous oral hygiene and keep up with regular visits to the dentist, this restorative dentistry procedure should last at least a decade.

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