If you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth, you’re probably tired are suffering through the embarrassment and difficulty chewing. You don’t have to go through this anymore. In fact, you have options. Replacing a missing tooth offers long-lasting benefits while providing a natural-looking substitute. You can do this with either a dental implant or a bridge. But which is the best option to replace your tooth? To decide, let’s look at each.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is essentially a titanium pin inserted into the jawbone. This requires minor surgery to do so, but many report it is well worth it to have such a permanent solution. The titanium pin is lightweight and biocompatible. After a period of healing, it will function in a similar manner to the root of a natural tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants:
Functions almost identical to natural teeth
Helps preserve facial structure
Aids in chewing
Simple to clean and care for
Typically will last a lifetime with proper care
Types of Dental Implants Available:
Single Tooth Replacements. One implant with one crown to replace a single tooth.
Multiple Tooth Replacements. Multiple implants can be installed by using a fixed bridgework.
Overdentures. Overdentures are now considered the standard of care for those who have lost all of their teeth in one or both jaws.
What is a Bridge?
As indicated by its name, a “bridge” literally closes the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It is used to replace a missing tooth by joining permanently to adjacent teeth or dental implants, but the enamel of these teeth must be removed. Unlike a dental implant, this fix does not require minor surgery and because of this, is less expensive. There is also less healing time.
Benefits of Dental Bridges:
- Same functionality as a dental implant
- Less expensive
- Less surgery required
- Shorter healing period
Benefits of Dental Bridges:
- Same functionality as a dental implant
- Less expensive
- Less surgery required
- Shorter healing period
Types of Bridges Available:
Traditional fixed bridges. These consist of two or more crowns and a filler tooth/teeth
Cantilever bridges: These are used when there are teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
Resin-bonded bridge. These are made of porcelain fused to metal teeth supported by a metal framework. Metal wings on each side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth. This type of bridge is commonly used to replace front teeth.
Even with this information, it can be difficult to know which option is the best for your unique situation. Instead of worrying and trying to decide alone, allow one of the caring professionals from Complete Dental help you. We offer the personal touch a dental bridge or dental implant surgery requires, that is why so many in the Houston area have chosen us as their dentists. Contact us today at (281) 449-1053 to schedule your talk.