What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth that a dentist attaches to your jawbone. An implant might be necessary if you are missing one or more teeth. It is the most effective tooth replacement option as it looks and feels just like a natural tooth.
What are the pros of dental implants?
Dental implants aesthetically improve your smile and provide stimulation to the tooth roots, which decreases your chance of bone loss under the gum. They can last for two decades or more with the proper oral hygiene regimen. Tooth implants are a versatile tooth replacement option that can be used to replace one tooth, multiple teeth or a whole arch.
They are the next best thing to natural teeth, which means you can eat whatever you want without having to worry about overwhelming biting or chewing force. What’s more, dental implants allow you to speak naturally and easily because they work and feel like natural teeth.
Teeth provide support for the face, and when they are lost, that support is gone too. Losing teeth causes the facial structure to change over time, making a person look older. Tooth implants keep your face from sagging and changing shape, similar to how your natural teeth would.
What are the cons of tooth implants?
While implants have many advantages, not everyone is a good candidate for surgery. If you have gum disease or a condition that stops your body from being able to heal itself, then your dentist will likely suggest other tooth replacements.
Dental implants are not a quick fix. The entire process from start to finish, will take several months. During this time, you will need to visit your dentist frequently and wear a temporary dental crown. You will need to have the dental implant surgery done in stages, with each stage requiring a complete healing and recovery period before you can move on to the next. While some patients may be content waiting for their replacement teeth, others may want a quicker solution.
What are dental bridges?
Dental bridges are artificial teeth used to fill in the gaps created by missing teeth, with support from the surrounding real teeth. They are composed of two or more dental crowns placed over neighbouring teeth.
What are the pros of a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a great option to replace a missing tooth. The neighbouring or adjacent teeth must be strong and healthy in order for the dental bridge to be placed. If you need a dental replacement done urgently, bridges are the way to go, as they can be completed rapidly. Dental bridges are generally more affordable than dental implants.
If you’re trying to decide between a tooth implant and a bridge, know that bridges offer a more seamless cosmetic tooth replacement. They also prevent your other teeth from shifting around in an attempt to close the gaps created by missing teeth. This being said, a dental bridge does replace the tooth above the gum line, but it cannot stop the bone loss underneath it.
What are the cons of a dental bridge?
Dental bridges require unique care and cleaning, so plaque does not build up on the gum below the artificial tooth. In order to floss in that space, you may need to use a special type of floss.
Dental bridges typically need to be replaced every seven years. Dental implants have a heftier upfront cost, but eventually, it may actually be cheaper than having multiple dental bridges placed over the years.
Dental Spot can help you choose the right option
If you can’t make up your mind about a dental implant or bridge, consult with Dental Spot. We have experienced dentists who will evaluate your individual case and help you determine which treatment option is best for you. After examining your teeth and hearing your concerns, we will recommend the most appropriate dental treatment plan for you.
Call us today at (02) 9158 6115 to schedule a consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Is it common to experience pain after dental implants?
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-implant-pain
Dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants#:~:text=Most%20people%20who%20have%20received,pain%20than%20a%20tooth%20extraction
