When it comes to replacing missing teeth, it's important to understand all of your options before making a decision. Dental implants and bridges are two of the most popular solutions, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Dental implants are much more effective than bridges in the long term and are also better for your oral health. The fact that they generally last longer than bridges explains the high cost that is generally associated with implant surgery.
Do a bridge or implant last longer? A dental implant is more durable than a bridge, allowing them to provide lifelong protection. The implant's titanium metal cylinder is durable and incredibly resistant to gum problems and tooth decay. The initial cost of a dental bridge is significantly lower than that of a dental implant. However, when it pays for itself over its lifespan, a bridge is much more expensive. This is because dental implants can easily last the rest of your life, while dental bridges need to be replaced, on average, every 10 years.
If you're on a tight budget, you might prefer a dental bridge. However, if you can make the investment, a dental implant is the best option. Implants generally cost more than bridges, especially if you need more than one implant. If you're replacing one or more teeth near the back of your mouth, a dental bridge may be the best option. When three or more teeth are missing in a row, an interesting hybrid option is the implant-supported bridge. The dentist then takes impressions of the teeth to be used as a model from which a dental technician will manufacture the crowns, the pontic and the bridge in the laboratory.
If you have a fixed bridge, your dentist may temporarily cement it in place for a couple of weeks to make sure it fits properly. Dental bridges consist of two pillars, or supports, on the surrounding teeth, with a pontic or false tooth joining them together. After a dental bridge procedure, you'll be able to chew and eat without problems, but you'll need to change your dental care routine. The dental bridge procedure does not last as long as the dental implant process, which consists of creating a direct functional and structural connection between the surface of an artificial implant that bears the load and the living bone. The dentist removes the temporary bridge during the second visit and will review and adjust the new metal or porcelain bridge if necessary to ensure a proper fit.
A cantilever dental bridge uses a dental crown cemented to a neighboring tooth, so you only need a natural tooth next to the space of the missing tooth. If you follow the instructions carefully, you can keep the bridge clean and fresh and extend its life. Unlike a dental bridge, dental implants replace both the root and the crown of a tooth, making implants much more stable. A dental bridge is a restorative option that your dentist may suggest if the missing tooth is between two healthy teeth. When it comes down to it, both options have their own pros and cons. Dental implants are generally more expensive than bridges but they last longer and provide better oral health benefits in the long run.
On the other hand, bridges are cheaper but need to be replaced every 10 years or so. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which option is best for your needs and budget.
