Whether you have lost one or more of your permanent teeth, it's important to determine the best teeth replacement option for you. Tooth loss negatively impacts your gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth in various ways such as shifting your teeth, causing you to speak with difficulty, shifting your bite, and increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Not only do teeth replacement options resolve these problems, but they also give you back your confidence and provide an aesthetically pleasing smile!
When deciding which option is best for you, it is important to weigh all of the cost and benefits for each option. In our guide below, two of the most common tooth replacement options are discussed: Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth by actually bridging the gap between remaining permanent teeth. A bridge consists of one or more false teeth (pontics) attached to two anchoring crowns on each side. These crowns are called abutments and are attached to permanent teeth once they are shaved/filed down.
Source: San Jose Dental
Benefits
Tested for over 60 years
Feel natural
Cost less and take less time initially
Straightforward procedure
Low risk
Generally have little post placement discomfort
Drawbacks
Requires grinding down healthy teeth to place bridge
Often weakens remaining teeth
Increased risk of cavities and decay; much harder to clean
Average bridge lasts 5-7 years
Require more visits per year
Hidden decay can lead to root canals
50% of bridges fail at 10 years due to re-decay
Must be replaced periodically
Will cost more time and money in the long run
Process is irreversible
Dental Implants
Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth. They are made from titanium and fuse to the jawbone and support a crown. They do not require remaining healthy teeth to be filed down or shaved.
Source: AAID
Benefits
Preserve remaining bone and gums
Do not require grinding down healthy teeth
Do not decay
Do not require root canals
Feel like natural teeth
They are strong and can last a lifetime
Generally have little post placement discomfort
Over the long run, they will cost less and require less time
Brush and floss like normal teeth and easier to maintain
Best possible aesthetic solution
Require less visits per year
Drawbacks
Initially may cost more, but in the long run cost less
Longer procedure at first
A small percentage fail
Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges, which are better?
Although dental bridges have been around longer, dental implants are a more efficient and longer lasting alternative to your natural tooth. However, replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth is a decision that should not be made on a whim.
Ensure you weigh all the cost and benefits for each treatment option and choose what is best for your specific case. Remember, both options are a better alternative than simply living with tooth loss!
Contact Dr. Steven Krakora today for more information on teeth replacement options.
