If you have missing teeth, dental bridges and dental implants are two restorative options to consider.
What are dental bridges?
A traditional dental bridge consists of at least one artificial tooth between two or more crowns. A bridge is held in place by attaching the crowns to existing teeth.
To prepare for a bridge, your dentist will shave down the teeth on each side of a gap. The dentist will then take an impression scan of your teeth, which they will send to a lab to create a bridge. While you wait for the permanent bridge, the dentist will provide a temporary bridge or crown to protect the altered teeth. Your dentist will place your permanent bridge on your second visit.
Pros of dental bridges
Bridges are one of the most cost-effective restoration options. Bridges can be made to resemble natural teeth and, with proper oral care, should last for around 10 years or longer. The process of being fitted for a dental bridge is also relatively quick, lasting no longer than a couple of weeks.
Cons of dental bridges
A dental bridge requires altering possibly healthy teeth to support the structure. Shaved teeth may be subject to tooth sensitivity, cavities, infection or breakage. Since the bridge is a connected structure, a special flossing technique must be learned to properly clean around it.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a titanium artificial “root” that is inserted into the jawbone. This artificial root acts as an anchor for a crown that will serve as a replacement tooth. You can consider dental implants if you are in good health, have healthy gums, and your jawbone is strong enough to support the implant.
Pros of dental implants
Dental implants offer a natural look and feel. Additionally, titanium is a biocompatible material that becomes a part of the body as the jaw heals. The root of the implant will hold the jawbone in a place like natural roots to prevent bone deterioration. Also, dental implant procedures do not involve altering the neighbouring natural teeth and can be flossed just like any natural tooth.
With proper oral hygiene practices, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Cons of dental implants
The cost of dental implants can be prohibitive. And if the jawbone has deteriorated, you may require a bone graft before you can have dental implant surgery. The complete process of getting dental implants is also longer than other restoration methods.
If you require a bone graft, you must wait months for the jaw to heal before you can begin dental implant treatment. Once you are cleared for implant surgery, and an implant is placed, you will again need months of recovery before the crown can be added.
A mixed solution
If you are missing several teeth, you may want to consider implant-supported bridges. With implant-supported bridges, a dentist will attach the bridge to implants instead of your natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges allow you to replace multiple teeth with a single bridge. Since an implant is not placed for each missing tooth, implant-supported bridges are more cost-effective than individual implants.
Are you searching for a dental clinic in Surrey?
At Newton Village Dental Clinic in Surrey, we can help restore your smile with bridges, implants or implant-supported bridges.
Are you still weighing your options? Our team is ready to answer your questions to help you make the right choice.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our dental restorative services.
