Dental Implant vs Dental Bridge

If you have lost a tooth or have a missing tooth you may be considering your tooth replacement options. Fortunately for you there are many tooth replacement options to choose from. Two of the most popular options are dental bridges and dental implants valparaiso indiana. Below is some information about these two popular replacement options to help you make the best choice for you.

Dental Bridges

In the past, a dental bridge was the only option for replacing a missing tooth. To have a bridge properly fitted, the teeth around the missing tooth gap will need to be prepared, which may include filing down the enamel. A bridge is a good option if the nearby teeth have fillings and may need crowns at some point in the future. Additionally, if the gum and jawbone are not healthy enough for an implant to be installed securely in your jawbone your dentist will not recommend a dental implant and a bridge may be the best option for you.

Dental Implants

Installing a dental implant does not involve the preparation of any other teeth. During the process the missing tooth is replaced with a strong and stable replacement post and artificial crown. A dental implant is an investment of both money and time, but it should be considered a permanent tooth replacement option.

Your Oral Care Routine

It is important to know that deciding on a dental bridge or a dental implant may influence your future oral care routine. After the implant procedure is completed, it may end up being easier to keep the implant and your overall mouth clean. A dental bridge is affixed to several teeth and may make brushing and flossing difficult. Flossing around a dental bridge may involve extra work to thread the floss under the bridge.

Durability

Dental implants are by far superior when it comes to durability. During the implant installation the metal post of the implant is surgically implanted into the jawbone which allows the bone to fuse to the post overtime. Further, the implant is usually made of titanium, which makes it strong, secure, and resistant to decay. All of this allows the implant to last a lifetime once installed. A bridge on the other hand usually lasts an average of 10 years. The bridge is not designed to be permanent and can wear down over time with normal eating and talking. Additionally, the teeth that the bridge is fixed to are at risk for decay and gum disease if they aren’t kept clean.

Costs

A dental bridge is less expensive than the dental implant option initially, however it should be kept in mind that the bridge will only last about 10 years and the implant is a lifelong replacement. Overtime the dental implant can be the far more cost-effective choice.

When deciding between a dental implant and a dental bridge there are several factors to weigh. The best place to start when trying to make this decision is to have a discussion with your dentist on which option is best for you and your oral health needs.

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