Dental Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures

Tooth loss is a very common condition today. It affects people of all ages, children and adults alike. There are several reasons why someone can lose a tooth, from injury to dental decay. 

Replacing a missing tooth is essential for maintaining facial structure and preventing eating and speaking difficulties. Some of the options for replacing missing teeth include dental implants, bridges, and dentures.

Dental Implants

Implants are artificial teeth roots usually made of titanium. The implants are mounted into the jawbone using screws, and they help hold a bridge or crown. The dental bone grows around the artificial implant, creating a firm foundation. 

Dental implants help deliver results that look natural. As tooth replacement options, implants are the best due to their long-lasting nature. Implants are not hooked on other teeth and do not damage the surrounding teeth.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are artificial or false teeth inserted to replace missing teeth. The bridges are held in place by the healthy teeth around the missing tooth. Dental bridges are made from different materials, including porcelain and plastic. 

They are designed to match the patient’s natural teeth shade. Bridges can be used to replace one tooth or several teeth. Dental bridge placement does not require invasive surgery or bone grafting. 

Dentures

Another option for replacing a missing tooth or teeth is using dentures. Partial dentures are usually made from plastic and metal, helping fill the gaps left by missing teeth. Dentures look like natural teeth, and they clip to the surrounding teeth, keeping them in place. 

Dentures are ideal when the neighboring teeth are not strong enough to hold a dental bridge. Partial dentures are cheaper than implants and bridges, but they are not as stable or comfortable.

Choosing Tooth Replacement Options

When choosing tooth replacement options, you need to think about several issues ranging from appearance to cost. The three options have their benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the cheapest option, which is dentures, will mean that you compromise on comfort and natural-looking results. 

Dental bridges do not require invasive surgery, but they do not last as long as dental implants. Implants are the costliest option, but they are also less likely to be covered by insurance. Dental implants are the longest-lasting tooth replacement option.

Number of Teeth to Be Replaced

When choosing a replacement option, you need to think about the number of teeth to be replaced. If you are missing several consecutive teeth, a dental bridge may be a better option than a dental implant. Separate implants may need to be surgically inserted into the jawbone for each tooth. This can be very costly and invasive. 

The dentist will recommend the best treatment for you, depending on your overall health. Surgery is required for dental implants, and you need to have a healthy jawbone. If you have certain medical conditions, this may not be an option for you.

If you have a missing tooth, visit a dentist to find out the best replacement option for you. Depending on the option you choose, the entire treatment process can take days or months.

To know more about dental implants, bridges, and dentures, visit Oral Surgical Associates at our offices in Missoula or Hamilton, Montana. You can call (406) 282-8768 today to book an appointment.