Dental Bridges Vs Implants A Complete Decision Making Guide
Dental bridges and implants are two popular dental procedures often used to replace missing teeth. Both procedures have their unique benefits, making it difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast dental bridges vs implants to make an informed decision about which procedure is best for you.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a dental procedure used to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge comprises two dental crowns, which are placed on either side of the missing tooth, and a dental bridge pontic, which is the replacement tooth. The dental bridge pontic is attached with dental adhesive or metal clasps to the dental crowns.
What Is An Implant?
An implant is a dental procedure that is used to replace missing teeth. An implant consists of a titanium post, which is surgically implanted into the jawbone, and a dental restoration attached to the top of the titanium post. The dental restoration can be either a dental crown, denture, or bridgework.
Types Of Dental Bridges
There are four dental bridge types that dental patients can choose from:
- Traditional dental bridges – This dental bridge type involves using two pontics and three dental crowns. The dental crowns are attached to the two pontics.
- Cantilever dental bridges – This dental bridge type is used when there are only two teeth on either side of the missing tooth space. A dental crown is attached to one pontic.
- Maryland bonded dental bridges (also known as resin-bonded dental bridges) – This dental bridge type uses dental crowns attached to the pontic through dental wings or metal frames.
- Implant-supported dental bridges – This dental bridge type involves dental implants. A dental implant is placed at each end of the dental bridge.
Each type of dental bridge is used in specific situations. Your dentist will be able to help you determine which type of dental bridge best suits your individual needs.
Types Of Dental Implants
Different dental implant types, depending on the dental restoration they support and their location in your dental arch.
- Endosteal implants – these dental implants are implanted directly into your jawbone. The crown is then attached to an abutment (small metal post) secured onto the dental implant via a screw. Endosteal Dental Implants can be placed into varying depths of bone tissue for more stability and retention. This dental implant is used when patients have enough healthy natural jawbone to accommodate them.
- Subperiosteal implants – this dental implant consists of a metal frame that sits on top of the jawbone but below the gum tissue. The dental implant is held in place by metal posts that protrude through your gums into your mouth so dental crowns can be attached to them. This dental implant alternative is used for patients with minimal bone height or with insufficient natural jawbone tissue due to periodontal disease and trauma, etc.
- One-piece dental implants – this particular type of dental implant has a post already attached to it when inserted directly into the jawbone during surgery. It eliminates the need for additional surgeries or procedures because no abutment (metal post) is required once the healing process has been completed over several months after dental treatment begins. These dental implants are usually reserved for patients who have adequate bone height and dental implant stability.
Dental Bridges Vs Implants Comparison
Dental bridges and dental implants are excellent dental treatment options for patients who have lost teeth due to periodontal disease, dental trauma, etc. However, the best option is dependent on some factors, including missing tooth location concerning adjacent teeth (the position of healthy abutments), amount of bone tissue available in the jawbone, etc.
Conclusion
So, what’s the verdict? Dental bridges are less expensive and faster to install than implants. However, implants are more secure and can last longer with proper care. If you have a strong jawbone and good oral hygiene habits, implants may be a better choice for you. Talk to a professional dentist about which option is best for you based on your specific needs and budget.
