If you’ve lost a tooth or multiple teeth, you’re probably considering restoration options to reclaim your smile and oral health. Two common choices are dental bridges and dental implants. While both have their merits, they come with distinct differences that could make one better suited for your needs than the other.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge “bridges” the gap created by missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth held in place by crowns affixed to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. However, a dental bridge involves a lot more than filling an empty space in your mouth. For support, the replacement tooth is anchored to your adjacent teeth, which are ground down and fitted with crowns. This design can make brushing and flossing a challenge, so it’s important for those with dental bridges to be extra vigilant with oral hygiene.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone that acts as an artificial root for a replacement tooth. The crown is later mounted on top of the post. Over time, the bone and titanium rod bond together for a result that is stronger and more permanent than a bridge.
Because a dental implant isn’t attached to your adjacent teeth, there’s no change to your brushing and flossing routine. Aesthetically, dental implants are designed to match the shape and color of your existing teeth. Because they look, feel, and function like real teeth, no one will ever know the difference.
Differences Between a Dental Bridge and a Dental Implant
1. Procedure
- Bridges typically involve reshaping the neighboring teeth to support the crowns.
- Implants require surgery, as the titanium post is fused with the jawbone.
2. Durability
- Bridges generally last 10-15 years with proper care.
- Implants are highly durable and can last a lifetime, making them a long-term solution.
3. Impact on Other Teeth
- Bridges rely on adjacent teeth for support, which may weaken them over time.
- Implants are independent structures that don’t affect neighboring teeth.
4. Bone Health
- Implants promote jawbone health by stimulating it like a natural tooth root.
- Bridges do not prevent bone loss, which may occur in the absence of tooth roots.
5. Cost
- Bridges are usually more affordable upfront.
- Implants tend to be more expensive but offer greater longevity.
6. Aesthetics and Comfort
- Both options provide realistic-looking restorations, but implants often feel more like natural teeth.
Which should you choose?
The right choice depends on your personal situation. Factors like budget, oral health, lifestyle, and long-term goals will play a role. Consult with your dentist to discuss these options, as they’ll help evaluate which fits your needs best.
About Sedation and Implant Dentists
Sedation and Implant Dentists is a comprehensive dental implant practice located in San Gabriel, California (within Los Angeles County). We offer complete restorative implant services including single implants, multiple implants, full mouth implants and zygomatic dental implants.
Thomas Gonzales D.D.S. and Michael Chang D.D.S., are experts in delivering advanced dental implant solutions with sedation dentistry to alleviate dental anxiety for patients with complex dental needs. We have been helping individuals with missing teeth and significant dental decay regain their dental function and confidence by providing custom-designed dental implants for over 48 years.
Our dentists are member of several prestigious organizations, including: the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology.
Sedation and Implant Dentists is located at 416 W. Las Tunas Dr. Suite 107, San Gabriel, CA 91776. Our office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Our website at https://SedationandImplantDentists.com.
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