There may be numerous dental restorative options, but the battle between dental implants and bridges never ends. After all, both these options offer a wide variety of benefits. One of which is their long lifespan. But it’s not just the question of how long they last, but rather what’s the best choice out of the two?
We have taken it upon ourselves to settle the dental implants vs. bridge debate once and for all. So make sure to read this blog till the end to find out which restorative procedure reigns supreme.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are fake teeth inserted into your jawbone to substitute lost or missing teeth. The fake tooth that is attached is made with pure titanium and porcelain, which makes it seem identical to your actual teeth.
An implant is an amazing option if you have one or two missing teeth. It’s highly effective and tends to last for a very long time.
Pros
- Looks incredibly realistic
- Strong
- Long-lasting
- Keeps your jawbone well-protected
- Protects gum tissues and the surrounding teeth
- Fuses with the jawbone.
Cons
- Expensive
- Tedious procedure (can take up to a year)
- Intrusive surgery
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is an oral appliance that looks exactly like a bridge – but it is specifically made for your pearly whites. The purpose of a dental bridge is to fill empty spaces between your teeth by relying on the surrounding teeth for support.
Each bridge is comprised of two or more crowns on the corners with extra pontic teeth in the middle. The best part is that once attached, dental bridges don’t just look realistic, but they also feel solid.
Pros
- Surgery doesn’t take too long. It’s a fast procedure.
- Non-invasive surgery
- Works best for people with underlying health concerns.
- Fewer chances of the surgery failing
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Not as aesthetically pleasing
- Needs to be replaced in a few years.
- Constant maintenance
What is Better: A Bridge or Dental Implants?
It can be tricky to decide between a dental bridge and dental implants, especially when you’re considering a long-term solution. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Based on the factors mentioned below, you can choose whichever restorative treatment you think best suits your preferences.
- Cost: Implants are known to be on the pricier end, while dental bridges are easier on the wallet.
- Number of Lost Teeth: In case of multiple lost teeth, dental bridges are a great option, whereas, for one or two teeth, implants work best.
- Durability: Both implants and bridges are made of good materials, meaning they are durable. But dental implants are far stronger due to their titanium base.
- Maintenance: dental bridges require more maintenance, but you must take care of your oral hygiene and maintain a good oral care routine either way to avoid future complications.
- Overall Lifespan: A dental implant lasts longer than a bridge. It can last an entire lifetime if proper care is taken. With bridges, though, you need to get them replaced every 5 to 10 years.
- Painful: Once settled in, neither options are painful. But since dental implants take a lot of time to fuse with your jaw, they hurt more than a dental bridge.
In A Nutshell
Dealing with lost or missing teeth is never easy. But if you want to restore your smile and regain your confidence, choosing the best dental restorative treatment is all in your hands. Be it dental implants or a dental bridge, you can consult your dentist to see which option suits you best. For more details, feel free to contact AK Dental at (512) 653-3008. You can also come and visit us at 7010 State Hwy 71, Austin, TX 78735, United States, for an in-person evaluation.