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A common question that people ask is “should I get dental implants or a dental bridge?”. These two popular options are mentioned when thinking about replacements. When you lose a tooth, it’s crucial to get a replacement to keep the rest of your teeth properly aligned and protect against infection. They can help you maintain your facial shape and prevent eating and speaking problems.
At Oldbury smiles Spa, we offer a range of services that cover dental implants and dental bridges. If you are struggling to decide which ones are best for you, keep on reading to find out.
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
A dental implant can be a solution for you if you have missing teeth. It is a surgical procedure involving a titanium screw placed in your jawbone to support one or more false teeth. This is usually done under sedation.
During the procedure, an incision is made in the gum tissue then your dentist will drill a small hole into your jawbone and an implant is placed into the hole. Then your gums are stitched together over the dental implant so it can heal. During this process, new bone can grow on and around the implant post.
After surgery, dental appliances should not be worn, as they will put pressure on the implant. The second surgical procedure is short and takes place between 3-8 months later. The implant will be exposed and evaluated to see if the implant has successfully locked and necessary changes can be made. Then a healing cap will be placed in the gums so the tooth can be attached to a small screw.
Dental Implant Pros and Cons
PROS
- Long-lasting: Can last to 15 years
- Offers a natural-looking appearance
- Easy to look after
- The implant doesn’t affect the healthy teeth around the implant
- Unlike dental bridges, you can eat and chew as you normally would
- Prevents bone loss
CONS
- Lengthy procedure – up to 6 months
- Expensive
- Can lead to surgical complications
- Unlikely to be insured
- Dental implants can fail for several reasons including gum disease, medical conditions or not having a sufficient jawbone
Can I Get An Implant After A Bridge?
Yes. You can get an implant after a dental bridge. After some time a bridge can wear out and malfunction. Even though it might look aesthetically pleasing, you can switch from a bridge to an implant to improve this.
What is a Dental Bridge and How Do They Work?
A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth with a false one that bonds to your natural teeth, this then bridges the gap in your mouth. However, bridges do not replace your tooth root as an implant would. A full x-ray examination will be performed of the mouth to assess any issues with your teeth and gums. A treatment plan will be made and tailored to your needs then revisited and then you can book an appointment.
Dental bridges work by anchoring the pontics in place, using the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap as support. The abutment teeth are prepared by removing some of their enamel to make room for the crowns, which are then cemented or bonded to the teeth. The pontics are then attached to the crowns, filling the gap where the missing teeth used to be.
Dental bridges are a good option for people who have one or more missing teeth, as they can help restore their ability to chew and speak properly, as well as improve the appearance of their smile. However, they require proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to ensure their longevity and to prevent any complications such as decay or gum disease.
Dental Bridge Pros and Cons
PROS
- Bridges cost less than implants, more likely to be covered by insurance
- Only requires two visits
- No bone grafting is required, which can save you more time as it avoids a lengthy surgical procedure
- Lower upfront costs in comparison to dental implants
CONS
- Bridges don’t last as long as dental implants do (only up to 5 to 7 years)
- Bridges do not correct bone loss in the jaw
- The natural-looking appearance disappears with age
- Bridges require putting crowns over healthy teeth, which can be damaged
- More tooth decay and cavities with bridges on surrounding teeth rather than with implants
What Age Can You Get Dental Implants or Bridges?
The required age to be considered for this treatment is at least 17 or 18 years old as the procedure requires a fully developed jaw.
However, in some cases, dental implants and dental bridges may be placed in younger patients if their jawbones have fully developed and they have good oral health.
Ultimately, the decision to receive these treatments would be made after a thorough evaluation by a qualified dental professional. They will be able to assess the patient’s individual needs and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
How to Choose Between an Implant Or a Bridge
- Compare the cost – we offer flexible financial plans which will help spread the cost of any treatment
- Consider your overall health as both procedures require surgery
- The length of the procedure, if you have enough time to go through with it
- If you have more than one missing tooth you should consider getting a dental bridge
Contact Us
There are other alternatives to dental implants and dental bridges. Root canal therapy, fix bridges and removable dentures are other options you can choose from. For more help and advice on choosing which one is best for you contact Oldbury Smile Spa today. We are a friendly team that cares about your oral health and wellbeing. Don’t take our word for it, see what our patients have to say.
Sainsburys, Freeth St, Oldbury B69 3DB
