The loss of teeth happens frequently. Approximately 69 percent of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one adult tooth. A quarter of Americans lose all of their adult teeth by age 74. It’s crucial to acquire a viable replacement to maintain your other teeth in alignment after a tooth loss. It’s vital to consider all your alternatives before choosing a restorative solution to find the one that works best for you. So what is better? Bridge vs. Dental Implant.
Two of the most popular tooth replacement options are a dental bridge or a dental implant. First, it is essential to understand the difference between the two.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic used to replace one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) connected to two dental crowns anchoring to the remaining natural teeth or implants.
Dental Implant
Dental implants are artificial titanium roots that are inserted into the jawbone to support one or more dental prostheses. The dental implant procedure entails typically inserting the implant into the jawbone and letting it heal for several months. A dental prosthetic can be attached to an implant once it has bonded with the bone. Dental crowns, bridges, and dentures can all be supported by dental implants.
What is the Difference Between Bridge vs Dental Implant
Dental bridges and implants are made up of false teeth, called pontics, supported by dental crowns. However, there are some key differences between dental bridges and dental implants. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth, while dental implants anchor in the jawbone.
Many consider dental bridges a more conservative treatment option because they don’t require surgery. However, dental implants are often seen as a more permanent solution because they fuse to the jawbone and function like natural teeth.
Another difference between dental bridges and dental implants is that you need to replace dental bridges every 5-15 years, while dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Ultimately, your best option will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Dental Bridge Pros
- Prone to insurance coverage
- Does not require invasive surgery or bone grafting
- Usually, only two dental appointments spaced out over a few weeks
- Smaller upfront cost than dental implants
Dental Bridge Cons
- They rely on the surrounding teeth for support
- Put teeth at risk for decay or damage
- May need to be replaced every 5-10 years
- Require regular maintenance
- Put extra stress on the surrounding teeth
- Loses a natural-looking appearance with age
Dental Implant Pros
- Can last 15 years or longer, making them the longest-lasting alternative on the market
- They maintain a natural-looking appearance longer than bridges
- They don’t harm the surrounding healthy teeth
- They have a very high 10-year success rate (about 97%)
- Provide a very strong and stable foundation for artificial teeth
Dental Implant Cons
- A surgical procedure
- Slight risk of complications such as infection or nerve damage
- Can be quite expensive, although the cost may be covered by dental insurance
- The process can take up to 6 months
We Will Help You Make The Best Choice
Overall, dental implants and bridges offer many benefits, but weighing the pros and cons is crucial before deciding if this treatment is right for you. Both are generally used for cosmetic purposes, but they can also help improve the function of the teeth and jaws by restoring the natural bite.
We offer many excellent dental solutions, and Dr. Rossow, Dr. Noce, and Dr. Neal can help you decide which is right for you. If you are looking for a tooth replacement, contact Aspen Dental in Denver, Colorado! We’ll help you decide when it comes to bridges vs. dental implants.