Maintaining good dental health is important not just for having a confident smile, but also for overall wellness. Dental implants and bridges are two widely used alternatives for missing teeth restoration. Both have advantages and disadvantages and choosing the best option necessitates understanding your unique oral condition and preferences.
Let us dive into the factors that can help you decide between a dental implant and a bridge.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants in Downtown Calgary are innovative and extremely successful tooth replacement options. An implant is a surgical procedure that includes inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, effectively replacing the tooth’s root. The jawbone integrates with the implant over time, offering a secure foundation for the replacement tooth (crown) that is eventually affixed. Implants are well-known for their natural appearance and functioning, which closely resemble natural teeth.
Pros
- Natural Look and Feel: In both appearance and effectiveness, dental implants closely resemble natural teeth. They integrate with the jawbone to form a strong, realistic-feeling replacement that resembles your own tooth.
- Preservation of Adjacent Teeth: Dental implants, unlike bridges, do not rely on adjacent teeth for support. This safeguards the health and integrity of nearby teeth.
- Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone in the same way as natural tooth roots do, preventing bone loss and preserving facial features.
- Longevity: Dental implants, if properly maintained, can last a lifetime, making them a long-term and cost-effective solution.
Cons
- Surgical Procedure: Implant implantation is a surgical procedure that may not be appropriate for those with certain medical issues or phobias.
- Time-Consuming: The implant procedure is time-consuming, and it often requires several months for the implant to fuse with the bone before the final restoration can be placed.
- Cost: Dental Implants Near You can have a higher upfront cost than bridges, which may be a factor for people on a limited budget.
Understanding Dental Bridges
Conversely, dental bridges include using nearby teeth as anchors to support a prosthetic tooth. Crowns are placed on neighboring teeth, with the artificial tooth (pontic) in between, bridging the gap created by the missing tooth.
Pros
- Faster Solution: Bridges often require fewer visits and a shorter treatment timetable than dental implants, making them a more convenient choice.
- Non-Surgical: Bridges, unlike implants, do not require surgery, making them a better option for people who opt to avoid surgery.
- Cost: Bridges often have lower upfront costs than implants, making them more accessible to a wider spectrum of patients.
Cons
- Adjacent Tooth Alteration: To support the bridge, adjacent teeth need to be filed down and fitted with crowns. This irreversible alteration can weaken otherwise healthy teeth.
- Potential Gum and Bone Issues: Bridges do not stimulate the jawbone in the same way as implants do, potentially leading to bone loss and damaging gum health over time.
- Limited Lifespan: Dental Bridges in Downtown Calgary might require replacement every 10-15 years due to wear and strain on the teeth that support them.
Making Your Decision
Health of Adjacent Teeth
If the teeth next to the gap already have problems or are not sufficiently strong to support crowns, an implant may be a preferable alternative.
Long-Term Perspective
Consider your long-term objectives. If you want a more permanent option and are ready to invest for the first surgical procedure, an implant may be the way to go.
Aesthetics and Functionality
Both implants and dental bridges near you have high aesthetics and usefulness, but implants offer a more natural appearance since they are fused into the jawbone.
Overall Oral Health
Consider how your selection will affect your long-term oral health. Dental implants assist in preventing bone loss in the jaw, whereas bridges may necessitate the alteration of healthy teeth.
Discover the Ideal Solution for Restoring Your Smile
Schedule a consultation with us to start your journey to a restored smile. Our professional dentist in downtown Calgary eagerly welcomes the opportunity to walk you through the many options for restoring the shine of your smile. We are committed to creating the right solution to your specific needs, whether it is through advanced cosmetic procedures, restorative treatments, or innovative technology.
Your dream smile is within reach – email or call us at Terra Dental Care and take the first step towards a new you!
