Dental bridges and dental implants are two of the most popular and successful options for restoring lost teeth. To make an informed choice, it is important to comprehend the distinctions between each alternative because each has a unique set of benefits and factors to take into account. The main differences between dental bridges and dental implants are explained in this article to help you decide which one could be best for you.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Through the actual “bridging” of the space between two surviving teeth, dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more lost teeth. Crowns positioned on the neighboring teeth (abutment teeth) serve as the bridge’s anchors, with a prosthetic tooth (pontic) positioned in between.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

1. Cost-Effective: Since dental bridges are typically less expensive than dental implants, many patients find them to be a more viable option.
2. Quick Procedure: Compared to dental implants, receiving a dental bridge typically only requires a couple of weeks and only 2 dental appointments.
3. Non-Surgical: Patients who prefer a less intrusive process or have medical issues that preclude surgery may find dental bridges to be helpful because they don’t involve surgery.

Disadvantages of Dental Bridges

1. Affects Adjacent Teeth: The placement of a dental bridge requires grinding down the adjacent healthy teeth to fit the crowns, potentially compromising their structure.
2. Durability: Bridges usually require replacement after 5 to 15 years, which is a shorter period of time than dental implants.
3. Bone Loss: Unlike implants, bridges do not prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur over time due to the missing tooth root.

What Are Dental Implants?

A more contemporary method of repairing missing teeth is with dental implants. They are made out of a titanium post that is inserted surgically into the mandible to act as a prosthetic root. After that, a crown is put on the implant to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing replacement tooth.

Advantages of Dental Implants

1. Long-Lasting: With the right maintenance, implants can last a lifetime and are extremely durable.
2. Preserve Jawbone: By stimulating the jawbone and halting bone loss, the titanium post of the implant preserves bone structure.
3. Natural Appearance: Implants offer superior functional and aesthetic outcomes by feeling and looking like real teeth.
4. No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Because implants are independent fixtures, the neighboring teeth do not need to be changed.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

1. Higher Cost: For some individuals, the cost of dental implants is a major factor, as they are generally more expensive than bridges.
2. Surgical Procedure: Dental implant installation necessitates surgery, which has a higher recovery period and associated risks.
3. Extended Treatment Time: Implant procedures can take several months since the implant needs time to osseointegrate, or fuse with the jawbone.

Factors to Consider

When deciding between dental bridges and dental implants, several factors should be taken into account:

1. Oral Health: Which choice is best for you may depend on your general dental health, including the state of your jawbone and gums. For implant placement to be successful, there must be enough bone density.
2. Budget: Finance is an important factor to take into account. Despite their higher initial cost, implants may end up being more economical in the long term because of their durability.
3. Personal Preferences: While some patients may favor the longevity and bone-preserving features of implants, others may prefer the non-surgical and faster bridge procedure.
4. Medical Conditions: Bridges are a safer option for dental implants because certain medical problems, like uncontrolled diabetes or severe osteoporosis, may make dental implant surgery contraindicated.

Conclusion

For the purpose of replacing lost teeth, dental bridges and dental implants are both viable options, though they each have advantages and disadvantages. Dental bridges are a quicker, less invasive, and more economical alternative to surgery, but they do not stop bone loss and may damage neighboring teeth. Dental implants offer a strong, aesthetically pleasing replacement that protects the jawbone and does not affect neighboring teeth, while being more costly and requiring more time to complete.

To determine the best choice for your needs, you must speak with a dental professional to evaluate your unique circumstances, oral health, and personal preferences. You may confidently enhance your oral health and restore your smile by carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a teeth whitening consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us at St James Dental Group at 323-771-7254. Our team of skilled dental professionals is always here to provide you with the highest quality care and help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

By: Ladan Zinati