In the modern era, there are multiple options to replace missing teeth. Today, dental implants and bridges offer excellent solutions to not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but also restore function. However, choosing between them can be tricky. If you are also stuck in the debate of dental implants vs. bridges, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will go through the main differences between dental implants and bridges to make the choice easier for you.
A dental implant is a restorative dentistry modality used to replace missing teeth. The term “implant” refers to the titanium post drilled into the jawbone to replace the natural tooth root. A crown is placed over the post to replace the visible tooth in the oral cavity. The dental implant is currently the best replacement for a missing tooth.
Dental implants can also be formulated as an implant-supported bridge in which a bridge can be placed over multiple implants to support the entire dentition.
A dental bridge is another restorative possibility for replacing missing teeth. As the name indicates, it bridges the gap between teeth by replacing the crown part only, not the root. In a dental bridge, fake teeth sit over the gums and are supported by the natural teeth on either side. Some experts believe dental bridges are more invasive than dental implants because they require altering the anatomy of healthy adjacent teeth.
While talking about dental implants vs. bridges, let’s first understand their components. A dental implant comprises three parts: a post, an abutment, and a crown. The post is the part of the implant drilled into the bone. It is usually made from titanium alloys or pure titanium.
The abutment is the part that attaches to the post, connecting it with the overlying prostheses. The crown sits over the abutment, replacing the tooth. In the case of an implant-supported bridge, the crown is replaced by a bridge comprising multiple tooth units.
On the other hand, a dental bridge also comprises three parts: pontic, connectors, and retainers. The pontic is the fake teeth that replace the missing teeth. The retainers are the crowns that support the pontic by covering the adjacent teeth. The retainers are connected to the pontic through connectors. Dental bridges are made from metals, ceramics, or porcelain.
Dental implants and bridges are both indicated to restore missing teeth, whether the loss is due to periodontal issues or trauma. Both these options can be used to replace a single or multiple teeth. However, one is preferred over the other in certain conditions.
For example, if your jaw lacks sufficient bone to support an implant, you might consider a bone grafting procedure to increase the bone or opt for a dental bridge instead. Similarly, suppose there are no adjacent teeth to support a bridge. In that case, an implant might be necessary unless your dentist uses a cantilever bridge, which only takes support from one side.
The procedures for dental bridges vs. implants take multiple visits. Yet, getting a dental implant takes a lot longer than a bridge.
When you visit your dentist for a dental implant, they will start by assessing the quality of the bone to check whether you are a good candidate for implant or not. If not, they may perform a sinus lift or a bone graft procedure. Afterward, your dentist will begin the implant process by drilling a post into the bone.
This post will then need 3 to 6 months to fuse with your bone through a process called osseointegration. After the healing period, a crown will be placed over the post to complete the procedure. This whole process can last anywhere between 8 to 14 months.
On the other hand, when you go for a dental bridge, the dentist will first check the health of the adjacent teeth to see if they are strong enough to support the missing teeth. If they are, the procedure starts with shaving them off. Then, the dentist will record an impression and send it to a lab for bridge fabrication.
Once the bridge is fabricated, the retainers will be glued to the adjacent teeth for support and stability. Other types of bridges, such as Maryland bridges, take support through wings instead of crowns from the adjacent teeth. Their procedure will differ. This whole process takes around 2 to 3 weeks in total.
Now, let’s talk about the lifespan of a tooth bridge vs. implant. Dental implants are the prostheses that last the longest. With proper maintenance and periodic visits to the dentist, they can last as long as 10 to 15 years. Their success rate for ten years is about 97%. On the other hand, dental bridges need to be replaced after 5 to 7 years. However, with proper brushing and flossing, they, too, can last for a decade.
The major difference between dental implants vs. bridges is seen in terms of their costs. If we consider the upfront costs, implants cost more than bridges. However, the cost may vary depending on the type of prostheses you receive, their location in the oral cavity, and insurance coverage. Dental bridges are more probable to be covered by insurance.
As the American Dental Association (ADA) specified, a dental bridge costs around $500 to $1200 per tooth. On the other hand, a dental implant costs about $3000 to $4500 per tooth. However, it is important to consider that dental bridges require more frequent replacements.
To conclude the discussion, dental implants and bridges are decent options for replacing missing teeth. Both have their benefits and potential disadvantages. Before you decide, weigh your options and get a professional’s opinion.
If you are confused about whether to have dental implants or bridges, contact us. Our dental experts in Paramus Park, NJ, will assess your condition and guide you accordingly. We provide the best bridges and dental implants in Paramus Park, NJ. So, book your appointment now and take your first step towards a healthier smile.