Dental Implants Versus Dental Bridges
Patients with missing teeth are at an increased of developing additional oral health issues, including infections, periodontitis, and jawbone deterioration. Two of the most common methods for treating a missing tooth or teeth are dental implants and dental bridges.
Dental implants are artificial teeth surgically placed in your jaw that include titanium posts, abutments, and crowns. Dental implants are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth and are a popular option for patients who have not had a positive experience with dentures or bridgework.
Dental bridges replace a missing tooth or teeth with an artificial tooth attached to an abutment that is connected to healthy teeth flanking the missing tooth. The most common types of dental bridges are traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant supported bridges. Dental bridges are typically recommended for patients whose adjacent teeth need crowns or caps, or for patients who have experienced bone loss.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants and Dental Bridges
To determine whether dental implants or dental bridges are right for you, it is important to weigh the procs and cons of each. Two of the most important considerations when deciding whether dental implants or dental bridges are right for you are the time and cost involved.
Compared to dental bridges, the process involved in having dental implant placed is considerably longer, and as a result, the overall cost is also more. Although the time involved is shorter and the initial cost of having a dental implant placed is higher than dental bridges, there are several considerations to keep in mind, one of the most important being durability. Unlike dental bridges, which need to be changed every 5-7 years, dental implants can last a lifetime if taken care of properly. As such, even though dental implants cost more up front, dental bridges may cost more in the long run.
It is also important to remember that, because the dental implant process takes place over a series of appointments that can take up to one year to complete, the cost of treatment is broken up as you go through the process. On the other hand, dental bridges are typically covered by dental insurance, whereas dental implants are most likely not.
Additional considerations include maintenance and aesthetic appearance. Both dental implants and dental bridges will make a significant improvement in the aesthetic appearance of your smile, however dental bridges do not look as natural as dental implants. With regards to maintenance, dental implant do not require modification to oral health care maintenance, whereas dental bridges will necessitate that you follow meticulous oral care when flossing or brushing.
Although there are pros and cons to either treatment option, the good news is that both dental implants and dental bridges will have a tremendously positive impact on improving your oral health and the aesthetic appearance of your smile. If you have any additional questions about whether dental implants or dental bridges are right for you, contact your dentist or periodontist to determine which treatment option is right for you.
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Dr. Alkakhan
Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.
Dr. Daru
In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.
Dr. Fields
Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.
Dr. Gupta
Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.
Dr. Lakkis
Dr. Dima Lakkis earned her DDS with honors in 2006 and completed her Periodontics training and Master of Science at Case Western Reserve. She is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Lakkis provides a full range of periodontal and implant treatments, with advanced training in cosmetic procedures. She is an active member of several dental organizations and has published in the Journal of Periodontology on the link between periodontal and systemic health.
Dr. Zalewsky
Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.