Dental technology has made great strides in the last 30 years and patients with missing or damaged teeth now have multiple effective treatment options available to them. While, dental bridges are the more established and currently less expensive method of replacing teeth and filling the gaps in your smile.
What’s the difference between a dental bridge versus a dental implant? Which tooth replacement method is right for you? Most dentists including Dr. Harry W. McCool of Lilburn, GA prefer implants due to their strength, longevity and ease of care. However, numerous factors need to be taken into account when Dr. McCool and you discuss your options, including if your tooth loss is recent or happened years ago.
Practical Reasons for Both
In the past, a bridge was the standard treatment for a missing tooth. A dental bridge utilizes a crown without a live tooth beneath it that is held in place by two adjacent teeth which are also crowned in the process. This preparation involves removing most of the enamel in order to attach the bridge. However, in the case of dental implants, Dr. McCool inserts the implant base directly into the jaw bone resulting in a prosthetic tooth that is stronger and permanent.
If the neighboring teeth have large fillings or are suffering from tooth decay, a dental bridge may be the preferred option since the crowns that support the bridge can repair the damaged neighboring teeth. If the tooth or teeth were lost a long time ago, the gum and bone may have deteriorated and procedures to strengthen the tissue — such as bone grafts- will be required before placement. The advantages and disadvantages to both procedures can ultimately be discussed with Dr. McCool.
Your Oral Care Routine
Your will more easily be able to keep your teeth clean and healthy with an implants. Dental bridges are not removable and, since they are comprised of at least three crowns connected together to fill the space of the missing tooth, brushing and flossing around them can be challenging. Implants, however, replace missing teeth individually without any connection or changes being made to the adjacent. With implants, you can more easily brush and floss effectively.
Durability
Dental implants are more durable than bridges with implant screws made of titanium that resistant to decay. The titanium will naturally bond with the jaw bone tissue in a process called osseointegration. that can last a lifetime. The metal cylinder or implant screw that is embedded into the jawbone is normally made of titanium or zirconia and this material bonds with your jawbone naturally. Because it’s comprised of such strong material, the implant itself is resistant to decay but you must still care for your gums and surrounding teeth or your implant may still fail.
Cost Comparison
The cost of the dental bridge is less initially, but your bridge will need to be replaced at some point in the future due to wear and tear. Implants – from preparation to final placement – may seem more expensive, but can actually save you money over time. Fortunately, most dental insurance providers now pay for a portion of or all of the steps involved in the implant process.
Dental Implants in Lilburn, GA
Both options are better than being self-conscious or having difficulty chewing because of missing teeth. Although bridges are an older tooth restoration method, dental implants have become more commonplace over the years, and in most cases are the preferred treatment for missing teeth due to their durability and ease of care. If you are considering dental implants, you need to see the best implant dentist possible. Dr. McCool of Lilburn, GA is a skilled professional with many years in practice. For a consultation with Dr. McCool about dental implants or any other dental concern, please call (770) 450-4407 or schedule an appointment online today!