Dental patients have more choices than ever before when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. Bridges have been around for a long time, and they are very appropriate for some. However, dental implants have become easier to acquire and more affordable. Read on to learn more about the differences between dental bridges and dental implants.
How Bridges Work
Unlike dental implant surgery, a bridge is non-invasive with no surgery required. However, the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth should be healthy and stable. A bridge is a false tooth, or crown, that is secured to the teeth on either side using a wired structure to secure it. The crown appears like your own natural teeth and won't be noticeable. However, if the bridge is in the front, it may be possible to glimpse the wires in some cases.
The bridge procedure is quick. An impression is made so that the crown can be created. Then the crown is attached to the teeth on each side. You must use more care when cleaning your teeth when you have a bridge. Food particles can hide in the wiring network and create problems with your other teeth. However, bridges are an easy and affordable way to fill a missing tooth gap if you attend to your oral health.
Dental Implants
Although the process for dental implants is longer and more complex, most patients say it's well worth it. Your dentist will evaluate your bone density to ensure your implants can bond with a healthy jawbone. If your bones are not strong enough, a bone graft may be necessary, and you must wait for the graft site to heal before you proceed with your dental implant surgery.
Dental implants are attached using a post inserted into your gums and jawbone. The post is topped with a crown that looks like your natural tooth. Some dentists perform the procedure in a day, and some do the two-step procedure. Talk to your dentist about the different processes for dental implants.
Once in place, dental implants can be cared for as you would your natural teeth. You can brush them and floss them as usual. While your implant cannot become decayed, your other teeth can still be vulnerable. Some implant wearers experience an infection at the surgery site but that is uncommon. Most implant wearers are delighted at how easy they are to care for and how attractive they look.
Speak to your dentist to find out more.
Every time you take a bite of food, you should be grateful for your healthy teeth! A tooth can lose its health and structure quickly once decay sets in. Luckily, if you visit your dentist for regular appointments, the decay should not get too serious before your dentist notices it and can do something about it. That "something" is applying a filling. On the other hand, if the decay progresses too long before it is caught, you may need a crown or even an extraction.
We want to keep our teeth, and we know you want to keep yours. That's why we created this website to teach you more about dentists and dental care. Enjoy!