Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridges
There are several options if a tooth is missing: a dental bridge, dentures, a dental implant, or you don’t do anything. The last option works for any budget, but we don’t advise it since leaving a tooth unreplaced can alter the curve of your face, affect the way you speak, make it difficult to bite and chew and cause your remaining teeth to shift and become out of place. So instead, schedule a consultation with our implant dentist, Dr. Christopher Pottorff, to discuss if a dental bridge or implants are best for your smile.
Comparison of Dental Implants & Dental Bridges
A dental bridge fills the voids left by missing teeth by joining artificial teeth with natural teeth. In a bridge procedure, the outer layer of your natural teeth will be removed by at least 1mm. Bridges offer support and stop teeth from moving and falling into voids left by missing teeth. Since teeth are joined and can no longer be flossed separately, bridges have a different mouth feel.
On the other hand, a dental implant inserts a new tooth root and crown into your mouth to replace a missing tooth. Natural teeth and implant replacements coexist and have the same appearance, feel, and functionality. Cleaning and flossing around implants are the same as natural teeth.
Benefits Each Treatment Can Offer
Dental Bridges
Dental insurance frequently provides partial, if not complete, coverage for dental bridges. Also, dental implants are more expensive than bridges. As for the length of treatment, a bridge treatment is quicker and needs less time away from the office. Moreover, when there is bone loss or other issues, dental bridges are an option.
Dental Implants
Dental implants function like natural teeth because of their strength, endurance, and look. In addition, implants can stop jawbone deterioration and ensure your bite is secure because they replace the tooth’s root.
Most patients with a missing tooth say dental implants are the most outstanding choice for regaining your natural smile. The implant can last a lifetime with proper care. Further, implants are the ideal solution when the teeth next to a lost tooth have extensive decay or are fragile.
Are Dental Implants More Durable Than Bridges?
Dental implants can be permanent, while dental bridges only last five to ten years. Implants are less likely to fail than bridges. The latter is likewise vulnerable to cracks, root canals, cavities, and gum disease. Additionally, the danger of gum disease or fracture is low with implants.
Candidates for Dental Implants
The right candidate for dental implants are patients with teeth that matured to have ceased growing their jawbone and have healthy gums. Additionally, you should have adequate bone to hold the implants in place. However, you can still be a good implant candidate even if you’ve lost your jawbone.
Choosing Between a Dental Bridge or Dental Implants in Algonquin
By drilling into existing teeth, joining teeth, and artificially bonding teeth to one another, implants do not damage the natural ones. In dental bridges, real teeth are used as support for false replacement teeth. Bridges have the benefit of being performed quickly. However, implants are often a better alternative for replacing teeth than dental bridges. Bridges don’t last as long as dental implants. Additionally, implants frequently have lower costs in the long run. During your consultation with our implant dentist, Dr. Pottorff, he will exam your teeth and gum and advise on the best course of treatment.
Book A Consultation at Advanced Dental & Implant Care
Call our implant dentist at (847) 854-1200 to schedule a consultation at Advanced Dental & Implant Care: Christopher Pottorff, DMD. We treat patients for dental implants and dental bridges from Huntley, Carpentersville, Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills, Elgin, South Elgin, Barrington, McHenry, Woodstock, and many surrounding areas.