While a missing front tooth is quite adorable in a small child, when it comes to an adult, it can be a constant source of embarrassment. In fact, rather than draw unwanted attention to it, you probably find yourself covering your mouth with your hand when you talk or smile. Fortunately, there are several ways your dentist can ‘fix’ the issue with two of the most common being a bridge or implant for front tooth replacement.
While dental bridges and dental implants are two of the most common solutions for a missing front tooth, how do you know which one is right for you? Book a consultation at your local dental clinic to learn your options.
Bridge or Implant for Front Tooth – Which is Best?
Both dental bridges and dental implants act as replacement teeth. But before rushing into a decision, read on to find out the differences between the two.
Dental bridges to Replace a Front Tooth
Dental bridges have been used successfully for decades to quite literally ‘bridge’ the gap left behind by a missing tooth. A prosthetic tooth is custom-made and secured to two dental crowns on either side of it. These crowns are then placed over prepared teeth on either side of the gap while the prosthetic or false tooth fills the gap and restores the smile.
While dental bridges are successful and fairly discreet, there are a few considerations you need to consider. One of the most important factors is that to support a dental bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap have to be filed down to accommodate the dental crowns. This can be quite disconcerting when those teeth are naturally healthy but, more importantly, the bridge will exert pressure on these teeth, which over time can weaken them and cause other dental problems.
For this reason, we would recommend that if your teeth are sufficiently healthy (and in a good condition to support a dental bridge), you should opt instead for a dental implant. This, of course, is provided you have the financial means to pay for one since dental implants are initially more expensive than dental bridges.
Dental implants for Replacement Teeth
Dental implants are the closest thing to natural teeth and offer a permanent solution to tooth replacement. The main difference between dental implants and dental bridges is that implants are a stand-alone tooth replacement solution and do not rely on the support of adjacent teeth.
Instead, dental implants are secured to the gums with a titanium implant post that is surgically placed into the jaw. It’s then left to heal during which time the surrounding bone will fuse with the post in a process known as osseointegration.
Because the post holds the dental implant in place securely it’s what earns dental implants their reputation for stability and reliability.
The Problem with Dental Bridges
Another reason to consider a dental implant rather than a dental bridge to replace a missing front tooth is peace of mind. Front teeth are on display more than other teeth and if you have a gap in your visible smile line, it’s impossible to hide without a replacement tooth or teeth.
Unfortunately, the major problem with a dental bridge is that the false tooth element of the structure is not secured to your gums – it simply sits on top of them.
Not only does this mean that the area beneath it could trap tiny food particles and bacteria which could cause dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay, but some people report that their dental bridge is prone to slip a little.
This makes it noticeable when they speak, smile, laugh, sneeze and more. Since dental implants are held in place more securely, your implant will stay in place no matter what you’re doing and there’s less risk of problems developing.
Bone Loss
When comparing bridges and dental implants, there’s also the bone loss to consider. Did you know that when a tooth is lost, the body absorbs the bone which once held it in place? As a result, the jawbone starts to change shape which is what causes some people to get that sunken look that makes them appear older than their years.
The dental implant post acts as an artificial tooth root and stimulates the bone, putting a halt to any further bone loss. Unfortunately with a dental bridge, bone loss continues to occur and it’s common for plaque to build up below the margin of the crown. Because the neighbouring teeth are weakened and more susceptible, this can lead to tooth decay which, in turn, can lead to a root canal, which may eventually lead to tooth loss and the failure of a dental bridge. While a dental bridge can be repaired, it’s additional costs to have to bear. Find a dentist that offers consultation to assess the suitability of your jaw bone.
Cost of Replacement Teeth
While initially, the cost of a dental implant may be higher than that of a dental bridge, with proper attention and care, an implant can last significantly longer than a dental bridge. So looking in the longer term, the perceived high cost of a dental implant can prove to be extremely cost-effective.
To Sum Up
The location of your missing tooth is an important consideration when looking at replacement teeth options. If you were to choose a bridge to replace a tooth toward the back of your mouth, it won’t be seen when you smile. But, if you use a bridge to replace a front tooth then it may not look as natural as a dental implant.
So, when considering a bridge or implant for front teeth a dental implant wins hands down.
If you’re like to find out more about replacing a front tooth with a dental implant, then why not get in touch with a dentist that offers implants consultation at No Gaps Dental?
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.