Thanks to modern dentistry, you can replace missing teeth in a number of different ways. No matter why you’ve lost one or more permanent teeth, and what dental issues you’re currently facing, you have plenty of options that can give you back a beautiful and fully functional smile. For example, both dental implants and dental bridges can restore your smile, but they differ in approach and results.
If you’re considering your options, check out this short blog post to find out the major difference between two of the most popular tooth replacement procedures: dental implants and dental bridges.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prosthetic teeth designed to look and function exactly like a natural tooth. The metal post gets inserted into the jaw and behaves just like a natural root, while the abutment and dental crown are placed on top to complete the procedure, and with it your smile.
Dental implants in Jacksonville are used to completely replace a missing tooth, can help prevent tooth shifting, and even support healthy jaw bone mass, which is vital for bone health. Unlike dental implants, partial dentures may not provide the same level of bone support and stability over time.
What Are Bridges?
Dental bridges are a type of prosthetic really similar to dental crowns. The difference is, bridges are designed to restore and replace multiple teeth at the same time.
In general, bridges are used when you have 1-2 missing teeth next to each other, and when the following tooth on each side is also dealing with some damage. It’s not recommended in cases where the surrounding teeth are perfectly healthy, since the bridge prepping involves reshaping the natural tooth and cutting its size.
However, dental bridges do require support from the abutment teeth, which may involve surgical procedures and sometimes even a root canal if these teeth are compromised.
What’s the Difference Between Them?
Let’s look at a side-by-side comparison to see which one of these procedures might work best for you:
Durability – Dental implants are permanent replacements, and with the right care, you can enjoy them for your entire life. Dental bridges may last between 10-15 years before they need to be replaced;
Cost – Dental bridge cost tends to be lower compared to dental implants when multiple teeth are replaced at once. But if you only need one dental implant, your overall costs with implant surgery might be slightly lower;
Results – Both implants and bridges are designed to match your tooth shape and color, offering you perfectly natural results. However, dental implants tend to provide more natural function, mimicking the behavior of a real tooth;
Maintenance – Both implants and bridges are easy to maintain and require good oral hygiene habits. One major difference with bridges, however, is that you cannot floss between the individual teeth, since it’s just one prosthetic.
Which One Is Right for You?
There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the right procedure to restore a smile. During your visit, Dr. Charles Poblenz will closely inspect your oral health and help you access the best solution to give you back a healthy and stunning smile. It’s important to evaluate your bone health, as some procedures, like bone grafting, may be necessary to make dental implants successful.
With regular dental check-ups, Dr. Poblenz can guide you through the process and help ensure you choose the most effective dental treatment for your needs.
If you’re ready to learn how you can replace your missing teeth, schedule an appointment at JAX Dental Studios online.
Want to learn more about our services? Then call us at (904) 396-4091 today for a short chat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental implants and how do they work?
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option designed to look and function like natural teeth. The process involves placing a metal post into the jawbone, which serves as the root, followed by an abutment and dental crown that mimic the appearance of a real tooth. This procedure not only restores your smile but also prevents shifting of surrounding teeth and helps maintain healthy jawbone mass. A dental professional can evaluate your specific needs to determine if dental implants are the best choice.
What are dental bridges and when should they be used?
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth. Typically, dental bridges are recommended when you have 1-2 missing teeth, and the neighboring teeth are either damaged or require reshaping to support the bridge. However, if the adjacent teeth are healthy, a dental implant may be a more suitable option. Dental bridges restore both the function and aesthetic appearance of your smile, providing you with a natural look and feel.
How do dental implants and bridges compare in terms of longevity?
Dental implants are known for their long-term durability. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, providing a permanent solution to missing teeth. On the other hand, dental bridges typically last between 10 to 15 years before they may need replacement. While both options can restore your smile and improve your dental health, implants may be the better option if you’re looking for a long-term, hassle-free solution for missing teeth.
Are dental implants more expensive than dental bridges?
Dental implants are typically more expensive than dental bridges, especially when considering the entire procedure, including surgery, post-placement care, and the dental crown. However, if you’re only replacing one tooth, the cost of a tooth implant might be lower than multiple dental bridges. Dental bridges are more cost-effective for replacing several missing teeth at once. A dental professional can help you weigh the costs and benefits of both options based on your specific dental needs and budget.
How do dental implants improve oral health?
Dental implants not only restore the appearance of missing teeth but also play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. By acting as replacement teeth, dental implants help prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting into the empty space, which can lead to misalignment. Additionally, they help preserve the jawbone’s density and structure by stimulating the bone, much like natural tooth roots. This makes dental implants an excellent choice for maintaining both dental and overall oral health.
