What's the Difference Between Dental Bridges and Dental Implants?

Losing a tooth or having a tooth removed can be rough. No one likes seeing a gap in their teeth, and that same gap can cause an array of oral health issues. Having a gap can also make it more difficult to chew, bite and more. Because of these reasons, a gap should be filled as soon as possible.

When deciding on how to best fill the gap, there are two main options that people will generally consider—dental bridges and implants. While they are both great options, they both have their advantages and their drawbacks. That’s why it’s important to understand what both dental bridges and implants are in order to ensure that you are making the best decision for your needs.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are dental appliances that “bridge” the gap between one or more missing teeth. They are generally made with two abutments that are attached to healthy teeth, which have been reshaped to place the new crowns. These crowns hold a pontic (false tooth or teeth) in place.

While the setup just described is the most common, there are other types of dental bridges available, such as Maryland and cantilever bridges.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants mobile alabama are a tooth replacement option that involves a titanium root being inserted into the jawbone, which is then attached to a false tooth or crown with the help of an abutment.

Why Choose Implants Over Bridges?

While both dental implants and bridges are good replacement options, implants allow for a level of support and longevity that bridges cannot provide. An implant allows a patient to bite and chew similar to the way that they used to with their natural tooth.

Implants are also sturdy, and are able to last for decades if they are properly cared for. Dental bridges, on the other hand, generally have a shorter lifespan—around 5 to 10 years. Due to the difficulty in effectively cleaning around the false tooth, dental bridges are subject to decay. They also cannot handle the same amount of pressure that implants can.

This isn’t to say dental bridges aren’t a good tooth replacement option—they are. Still, they generally won’t provide the same support as implants.

Why Implants May Not Be an Option

Although dental implants are often preferred, they aren’t always an option. A dental implant requires the jawbone to be strong enough to support the root that is installed. If the jawbone has deteriorated or is damaged, it may not be able to accommodate the implant.

Price is also a concern when it comes to the choice between implants and bridges. The upfront costs of implants are higher—although they generally cost less in the long run. Keep in mind that, on average, implants need to be replaced far less often than bridges. Because of this, they may be a better long-term investment.

The choice of having a dental implant or dental bridge placed is a decision that needs to be made between your dentist and you. Speak with your dentist about which tooth replacement option is best for your needs.

Contact West Mobile Dental Care

We'd be happy to go over you options with you and find out what the best course of action is. Contact us today, we offer a wide variety of Preventative, Restorative, and Cosmetic Dentistry including dental implants. We're available at (251) 666-3600 or via our online contact.

Interested in learning more about the benefits of dental implants? Read more here!