Teeth loss happens to many adults in Australia; luckily, several options exist to fix these missing teeth. Dental implants and dental bridges are two of the most popular.
Many things come to mind when considering dental implants and bridges since they seem to serve the same purpose. Still, many differences between them lie primarily in the technique used by your dentist for the treatments. If you’re considering tooth replacement, visit Dentist Ellenbrook for professional advice on the right option for your smile.
Continue reading for the pros and cons of dental bridges and implants before you visit the dentist with a particular option in mind.
Key Takeaways
- A dental implant is generally a longer-term option for missing teeth than a bridge, though this varies between patients.
- A bridge procedure will cost less than an implant at the outset.
- The dental implant procedure takes much longer to complete than the dental bridge.
- Your dentists will conduct tests and examinations to find which option is better for you.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a long-term solution for missing teeth. It involves a metal, screw-like anchor that is surgically embedded into the jawbone. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a process known as osseointegration, an abutment and crown are fitted to the implant, resulting in a replacement tooth that is designed to closely resemble your other teeth in look and feel.
Dental Implant Advantages
- Dental implants may help preserve jawbone density by stimulating the bone during chewing, similar to a natural tooth root, though outcomes vary between patients.
- It can help restore the function and appearance of your teeth.
- Implants can help you eat and speak more comfortably than with a gap or a loose denture.
- Published research shows dental implants have a high success rate, though individual outcomes vary; ask your dentist about what to expect.
- Dental implants are designed to closely resemble the look and function of natural teeth.
- The implants can last for many years as long as you properly maintain them.
- Dental implants require continuing your regular oral hygiene to keep them clean.
Dental Implant Disadvantages
- The implant may not integrate with the bone (failed osseointegration) and may need to be removed.
- Dental implants are susceptible to infections around the gum.
- The dental prosthesis may fracture or break if too much pressure is placed too early.
- It takes a relatively long time for dental implant treatment to be completed.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a type of dental prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is held in place by dental crowns that are cemented onto the natural teeth adjacent to the gap. This creates a ‘bridge’ across the area where teeth are absent, restoring both function and aesthetics to the mouth.
Dental Bridge Advantages
- Dental bridges mimic the appearance of your natural teeth effectively.
- They restore the chewing ability that you may have lost alongside your teeth.
- Dental bridges are designed to help restore the appearance of your smile.
- Your dental bridge treatment is more likely to be covered by insurance.
Dental Bridge Disadvantages
- A dental bridge does not stimulate the jawbone the way a tooth root does, which may contribute to bone loss in the area over time.
- The nature of the bridge prevents you from flossing between the crown and the pontic.
- One of the pillar teeth may experience decay which may not be easily detected and cause the dental bridge to fail.
- If the bridge should fail, your dentist will have to compromise another set of healthy teeth to repair it.
- A bridge will usually need replacing at some stage; how long it lasts depends on your oral health and care.
Dental Implants vs Bridge comparison
Dental Implant vs Bridge: Surgery
As far as the surgical aspect goes, dental bridges do not require surgery to be fitted and are typically less invasive than dental implants. It involves the preparation of the pillar teeth and cementing the crown or wing onto them.
A dental implant is relatively invasive as an incision is made across the ridge of your gum line, and a hole is drilled into your jawbone. This hole is what your dentist will insert the dental implant into before fitting the dental prosthesis.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge: Maintenance
The maintenance of both the dental bridge and a tooth implant is quite similar since they both require just slight changes to your dental care routine. You will need to continue brushing with a soft toothbrush twice daily but with non-abrasive toothpaste.
For flossing, you will need special super floss to get all the areas around your dental implant and bridge. This floss usually comprises a stiff part, a spongy part and a regular floss part.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge: Treatment Length
A dental bridge will usually require just two appointments to get the bridge prepped and fitted, while a dental implant can take up to a year and several appointments to be completed.
Sometimes, your dentist may have to perform a bone graft to up your jawbone density. This procedure will add to the treatment length as the bone graft will need a few months to heal.
Dental Implant vs Bridge: Cost
At Coolamon Dental Centre, a single dental implant starts from $3,999 per tooth, with the final cost confirmed after assessment. Contact us for a personalised quote. Dental bridges, on the other hand, are generally less expensive. However, considering the longevity and fewer replacement needs of dental implants, they may prove more cost-effective in the long run. Always consult with your dental professional for a precise estimate.
Tooth Implant vs Bridge: Insurance Coverage
Many insurance companies in Australia consider dental implant treatment cosmetic and may not cover it. However, some dental plans may cover a part of the treatment cost.
While dental bridges may be covered under major dental coverage in Australia, you should ask your dental insurance provider whether they offer partial or complete coverage for dental bridge treatment.
Dental Implant vs Bridge: Health Benefits
A dental implant may help maintain the jawbone by stimulating it, while a bridge does not, so some bone loss can occur under the false tooth over time. On the other hand, a dental bridge may cause damage to healthy crowns to allow its installation.
In the long run, a dental implant may have more significant benefits than bridges. However, this is subjective, and you can ask your dentist for the better option for your treatment.
Dental Bridge vs Implant – Comparing Your Options
The choice between a dental bridge and an implant depends on individual circumstances. Dental implants are often preferred for their durability and potential to help reduce bone loss, making them a longer-term option. However, they require good overall health and a longer treatment time. Dental bridges, while quicker to install and less invasive, may need replacement over time. They are a good option for those seeking a faster solution or those with multiple consecutive missing teeth. Always consult with your dentist to determine the best option for your specific needs.
FAQ
What Last Longer, Bridge Or Implant?
With good care, implants often last longer than bridges, though this varies between patients.
Is A Bridge Cheaper Than An Implant?
At the outset, a bridge will cost less than a dental implant. However, an implant may be the more cost-effective option due to the maintenance needed over time.
Who Is Not A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?
A dental implant may not be a suitable choice if you do not have a healthy jawbone and cannot undergo a bone grafting procedure.
How Many Years Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants can remain in good working condition for many years, provided they are properly maintained.
Why Is A Dental Bridge Not Recommended?
A bridge isn’t right for everyone. It relies on reshaping the neighbouring teeth to hold the crowns, and the bone under the false tooth can shrink over time. Your dentist can tell you whether a bridge suits your situation.
What Are The Alternatives To Dental Implants?
Depending on your situation, other options besides dental implants include a dental bridge or a denture.
What Is The Alternative To A Dental Bridge?
Dental implants and dentures are effectively and relatively long-lasting solutions to missing or damaged teeth.
How Many Teeth Can Be On A Bridge?
As many as 16 teeth can be on a full arch bridge or as small as three for a single tooth replacement–with one pontic and two crowns.
How Painful Are Dental Implants?
Local anaesthetic is used to manage pain during the procedure. Some discomfort afterwards is common and can usually be managed with pain relief as advised by your dentist.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
This depends on your individual oral health and goals. Your dentist can assess your suitability for a dental implant during a consultation.
Conclusion
Both tooth implants and dental bridges can fix lost teeth, and which is better depends on your individual circumstances. To find out which is right for you, visit Coolamon Dental Centre in Ellenbrook and speak with one of our qualified dentists.
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