Losing a single tooth doesn’t just leave an embarrassing gap in your smile. Tooth loss can also increase the risk of misalignment, as well as issues with jaw joint strain, such as TMJ disorder or bruxism. Fortunately, there are options available to replace your missing tooth. Which option is best for replacing your lost tooth, a dental bridge or a dental implant?
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is a prosthetic that consists of artificial tooth/teeth with dental crowns attached to each end. Before placement, tooth structure must be removed from the teeth on either side of the gap in the patient’s smile. The crowns are then placed onto the prepared teeth, anchoring the new teeth in place. This prosthetic can be used to replace one to three teeth in a row. The bridge can last between 10 and 15 years on average before requiring replacement.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are stronger, longer lasting, and don’t require your surrounding natural teeth to lose structure. Instead, an implant post is inserted into the jawbone, acting as a new root. The restoration is then attached to the top after the area heals. The new tooth can last a lifetime with proper care and attention. If you have multiple missing teeth, we can secure a bridge with dental implants, preserving surrounding teeth and replacing multiple lost teeth.
Are Implants Right for Me?
There are a number of factors that qualifying candidates must have. First, you need to have enough jawbone tissue to support the tooth. Otherwise, a bone grafting procedure may be necessary before placing the implant. In addition, you need to be free of advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, as this can cause the new tooth to fail. If you have any questions about our implant bridges then please contact our office today.
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