Bridges Or Dental Implants -- Which Is Better?

If you've ever had to have teeth removed or lost some due to an accident, you know getting them replaced quickly usually takes priority. Dentists often will let you decide which option you prefer, implants or bridges. It's difficult to know which option is best for you or if one really does have an advantage over the other. Depending on the individual circumstances, either one may work. The Bridge A bridge is a dental appliance that relies on the teeth to either side of the treatment area for stabilization. This will sit on the jawbone where dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone. A bridge will be selected if the jawbone does not have the proper structure to support a post or if the bone doesn't allow proper fusion with the metal. Dentists can make a bridge cheaper than they can an implant. With both procedures, the cost involved is determined by the amount of care the patient receives over the lifespan of the treatment. There are certain situations that make it difficult for the jawbone to be receptive to a metal post. This may include decay under alternative treatment procedures and smoking. If the appliance isn't properly anchored, it can release and be subject to damage. If the tooth is damaged, dentists would have to make a repair, which would add to the costs. Additional treatments such as root canal, pulp cap, or other treatments may also have to be performed. Part of the decision deals with how damage is handled. If you have an implanted crown and damage occurs, you only have to replace the crown portion. A bridge can either be repaired or replaced, depending on the extent of the damage. Since bridges seldom need to be replaced, this option can be much more affordable in the long run. Dental Implants When a bridge is selected as the treatment of choice, your dentist has to grind or file the teeth on either side to hold the bridge. These ground down teeth are still susceptible to tooth decay and can fall victim to disease. A big advantage to a dental implant is they do not affect adjacent teeth. The implants cannot become decayed since they are constructed from man-made materials. Cleaning is another distinct advantage when it comes to dental implants. There is no special care required; you simply continue to use your normal oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing. The dental bridge requires special cleaning and instructions from your dentist. You need to be extremely careful to prevent damage and decay from the supporting teeth as well as the potential of gum disease. Which treatment option looks better? This is a common question the dentist receives when patients are given a choice. Both options will give a very natural appearance, but the dental implants are almost impossible to tell from your natural teeth. This is true especially if you have any discoloration of your teeth. In the process of making the implant the material can be custom colored to match your teeth perfectly. Although the same can be said for the tooth portion of the bridge, the material that is used to connect and hold it in place cannot. Under the right circumstances, both a dental implant and a bridge can be a highly beneficial treatment. Dentists will look at each patient as a unique situation in determining which option offers the best treatment. If you feel your dentist has made the wrong choice for you, be sure to discuss it ahead of time. They will be happy to give you the reasons behind the decision.

About the Author

Christine O'Kelly is the author for the Wheaton dentist belonging to the Grove Dental Group. For patients in Downers Grove, dentist services are available as well as at several locations around the Chicago area.