What’s the Best Choice- Dental Implants or Bridgework?

Dr. Firoz Lalani

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Firoz Lalani

Table of Contents

One of the major questions that we worry about and also want to ask our dentists is whether to get a bridge or an implant done for replacing teeth. This position generally occurs when there is an extracted tooth or missing teeth in our mouth and can pose a serious threat of infection.

Coming out of a situation like this is to get a replacement of quality which will ensure a healthy and beautiful smile. Now, when you decide to get a replacement done the most important thing to understand is the difference between a Dental Implant and Bridge.

To help you decide what’s best for you, let us dive into the details and understand the difference between the two.

dental implants

Dental Implants

In case of tooth or teeth loss, periodontal disease or any reason other than these dental implants are a great choice. Dental professionals and many patients prefer implants more than dentures or bridges.

A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as a root for the tooth in support of the crown. To anchor into the position, it is implanted in the jaw bone to fuse with it ensuring an anchored position. After this process of osseointegration is finished which usually takes about 3 to 6 months, they attach an abutment to the post frame. Once done, it starts protruding above the gum line where then the dental crown is screwed or cemented.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

A dental implant requires oral surgery for the process to take place and happens under sedation. This is because the jaw bone is drilled for a small hole and screws the base into the bone carefully; they place gum over the implant for healing.

After healing, another surgery is done to fit the connector on top of the implant and then the crown is positioned on top using screws and dental cement.

The implants have a very pleasing look as the dentist can make them look natural and has a durability of a lifetime.

dental implants

Dental Bridges

When there is a gap between missing teeth, one or more dental bridges help in bridging them. Natural teeth or implants support these bridges from different sides. Two or more crowns makeup for teeth on each part where the gap is.

They don’t replace the root of the tooth like an implant but use the surrounding tooth or teeth as a cover for attachment. The crown fills the place of usually the tooth that is missing.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

When you visit the Union dental office for the first time, your dentist will prepare the teeth that are neighbors. Preparing for this procedure involves a part of enamel removal recontouring the teeth allowing some room for the crown to place over.

Taking impressions of the teeth allows technicians to use it as a model and create the crown, bridge, and pontic in their lab. Multiple visits are required for this entire process to get completed.

Ceramic bridges are attractive and unnoticeable and have an average life span of about 10 years.

The Difference

Comparing both dental implants and bridges, a bridge is less expensive. The pro of getting a bridge is that it doesn’t need to be removed for cleaning purposes, the process is faster and you get adjusted to it in lesser time.

In an implant, although it is a little costlier, it doesn’t impact other teeth and prevents loss of bone. The only con point is that it is surgery-based and requires more time and sittings.

Getting a bridge is a better option if your tooth is missing for quite some time as an implant may not secure the implant as gums and bone will have receded.

Concluding the above comparison, consult your dentist and get a proper checkup at Adentalcare. Once you understand your situation, considering all the factors as cost differences choose what is the best solution for you

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