A Guide to Help You Decide on Dental Implants or Dental Bridges

If you’re missing teeth, you’re not alone because nearly 70 percent of adults aged 35 to 44 are living with at least one missing tooth. But there’s no need to suffer in shame because dental implants and dental bridges can replace those missing teeth. Which dental restoration is the right choice for your needs?

The Facts on Dental Implants and Dental Bridges

It’s important to understand that dental implants and dental bridges replace teeth in different ways. Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically embedded into the jawbone, which allows the gum tissue to grow around them to hold them permanently in place. Once in place, these posts connect to replacement teeth to hold them securely. Dental bridges are simply frames that feature crowns on both sides and artificial teeth in the middle. These crowns are attached to the teeth surrounding the gap to temporarily hold the frame in place.

Their Future Strength and Endurance

The permanent solution for replacing teeth is dental implants. These can last up to 25 years or more because they are firmly embedded into the jawbone to replace both the root and the tooth. By replacing the root, you protect your bone, which helps maintain your dental health. And dental implants have a 95 percent success rate and nearly 50 years of supportive clinical studies. But dental bridges are simply a temporary answer that must be replaced every 10 to 15 years. See, dental bridges are simply connected by a set of crowns, which have a much shorter lifespan. Plus, dental bridges do not replace the root of the tooth, so the bridge is less secure and the lack of a root over time can pose a risk to your dental health.

The Factors that Determine Your Decision

Beyond these basics, there are a number of practical considerations that can affect your dental decision. The most important distinctions and differences are:

1. Dental implants are best for healthy people with sufficient jawbone structure to support dental implants.
2. Dental implants are usually not recommended for children, smokers, diabetics, and people with weakened immune systems because they require surgery for placement.
3. Dental bridges cost less initially, but their need for later repair and replacement can increase long-term costs, even when placed by an affordable dentist.
4. Dental implants may be more costly to place, but their strength and longevity eliminates their need for replacement. Yet, an affordable dentist can offer options to ease their cost.

Dental implants clearly have more benefits than dental bridges, but they may not be best for your needs. Ask your dentist to help you make the right dental decision.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Union, call American Dental Center today at (908) 279-0623 or make an appointment.