You can choose to replace a missing tooth with a dental bridge or a tooth implant. A dental bridge is used to support a replacement tooth or teeth between two natural teeth, whereas dental implants are surgically embedded into the jawbone and act as a new root for your tooth. In this comparison guide, No Gaps Dental will consider the merits of a tooth implant vs bridge.
Dental Bridge vs Implant – Which is Best?
The tooth implant vs bridge debate reveals advantages and disadvantages for each tooth replacement option. To help you decide if a dental bridge or dental implants are right for you, you’ll need to consider the surgery, maintenance, appearance, and cost of each. Get an appointment with a dentist that offers consultation and discuss the details.
Dental Bridge vs Implant – Surgery
If you choose dental implants, you’ll need surgery. Tooth implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, which makes them a sturdy option that reduces bone recession.
Once the surgery site heals and the implant has fused with the jawbone it is fitted with an abutment and a dental crown for a natural-looking and fully functioning tooth. As with any surgery, there is a small risk of infection and nerve damage.
A dental bridge procedure is a lot less invasive than surgery. The teeth adjacent to the gap are prepped and fitted with dental crowns to anchor the bridge which is cemented in place.
Due to the filing down of healthy teeth to support the bridge, a dental bridge may weaken your surrounding teeth in the long-term.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge – Ease of Maintenance
When looking at a tooth implant vs bridge, one of the main things to consider is how easy they are to maintain. Dental implants and dental bridges require good oral hygiene practices for them to last.
Dental implants are easy to clean. You simply brush and floss as normal. Whereas, a dental bridge can restrict access for flossing and make maintenance a little more tedious. As a result, dental bridges tend to fail in 5 to 10 years.
Tooth Implant vs Dental Bridge – Durability
Another key consideration in the dental bridge vs implant comparison is durability. You want a restoration that is going to last a lifetime. Dental implants are fixed securely to your jawbone and, like a natural tooth, can withstand pressure. A dental implant is likely to last the rest of your life, although the dental crown may need to be replaced due to wear and tear.
A dental bridge tends to put greater strain on your mouth because they are not securely fixed to your jawbone. They also don’t stimulate your jawbone so it will recede, and you will have to replace your restoration. Find a dentist that offers consultation to assess your jaw bone if it’s been years since you lost your tooth.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge – Appearance
The appearance of teeth is typically a top priority for patients when considering a tooth implant vs bridge. You want your tooth replacement to look like a natural tooth. Dental implants and bridges are discrete, and each will restore the appearance of your natural smile.
However, a tooth implant is less noticeable because it’s embedded below the gum. A dental bridge, on the other hand, sits on top of the gums and depending on its location in your mouth, it might be noticeable to observant eyes.
Dental Bridge vs Implant – Cost
Dental bridge treatment is often a cheaper option than dental implants. A dental bridge can be used to replace a tooth in one or two sittings, meaning fewer visits to your dentist.
Replacing teeth with dental implants will cost you significantly more than a dental bridge. However, given the longevity of dental implants in comparison to a dental bridge, they may be the most cost-effective option. Get a consultation at your local dental clinic to find out which is best for your case.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge – Length of Treatment
Tooth implants can take several months to complete because the implant has to fuse with the jawbone before the abutment and dental crown can be added. If you lack sufficient jawbone density you may also require a bone graft or sinus lift surgery before undergoing dental implant surgery. This will add to the length of the treatment.
Dental bridge treatment is much quicker, usually taking between one to three weeks to install and requiring just two visits to your dentist.
However, while dental bridge treatment can be completed faster, these tooth replacement options weaken over time, so you may need to undergo further treatments. On the other hand, with proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, and you’ll only need to visit your dentist for your six-month check-ups.
Dental Bridge vs Implant – Health Benefits
Although a dental bridge offers a quick solution for missing teeth, dental implants offer a number of practical health benefits. A tooth implant can help gums that have been infected as a result of missing teeth heal, and they promote jawbone growth, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
A dental bridge can damage your remaining natural teeth, which have to undergo significant preparation to accommodate a bridge. This means the structure of your natural teeth has to be dramatically altered.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge – Insurance Coverage
If you’re relying on your insurance to cover the cost of a tooth implant or bridge, your insurer is more likely to pay out for a dental bridge rather than a dental implant, due to the lower cost.
Before deciding on the right option for you, it’s worth talking to your insurance provider, especially if the cost of treatment is a major factor.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge – Which Should You Choose?
If the cost and speed of treatment are major factors in choosing between a tooth implant or dental bridge, then a bridge is your best option. With shorter treatment times, a lower cost and no surgery involved, a dental bridge can help you restore the appearance of your smile quickly.
If you’re looking for a long-term solution to missing teeth, then dental implants are your best option. Although they’re pricier initially, dental implants offer a more comprehensive restorative solution for your mouth.
Choose No Gaps Dental For Your Treatment
If you’re considering dental implants in Sydney as a solution for your missing teeth, No Gaps Dental can help. We offer flexible payment plans to cover the cost of dental implants.
To discuss whether dental implants are right for you, call (02) 8007 6727 or email info@nogapsdental.com to book a consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.