Dental Implants vs Dental Bridge

This particular discussion is why it is so beautiful to be an American. You have options. You can chose every day what is best for you, your family and your friends. The differences between having a dental implant and a dental tooth bridge can be somewhat significant, or it can be minimal. A lot depends on the particular situation you and your dentist find yourselves in. In the end they both achieve the same goal or result and that is to fill a gap left from a missing tooth or teeth. A gap that changes your smile. A smile that has so much value to your well-being.

Benefits and Disadvantages of both

Years ago implants did not exist. A dental bridge was your only choice in replacing a missing tooth. Then new implants need a strong jaw bone and decent gums to be successful. If your tooth has been missing for a while this could be a problem and steer you to a dental bridge. If your teeth adjacent to the gap, which will become anchor teeth, are in bad shape such that they cannot take crowns to support the bridge, then an implant will be your best option. Both options aesthetically give you great results due to the porcelain and enamels used for the artificial teeth and the crowns. An implant can last 10 to 15 years where as a bridge may need to be replaced before 10 years. The dental bridge procedure can be done in two to three visits to the dental office. The implant may take months as you wait for the titanium post to adhere to the jawbone. An implant requires normal oral hygiene when it comes to brushing and flossing. The dental bridge will require you to address that area differently due to the fusion with the abutment teeth and the artificial tooth.

The Cost Difference

A dental bridge can cost literally half what you will expect to pay for an implant. That is a range from $2,000 for a bridge to $4,000 for an implant. Each and every single case is different. After your consultation with your dentist their office will also research your dental insurance to see what the difference might be with your coverage. Some insurance does not cover implants at all. Again, it is a case to case situation.

The Final Benefit to you

Not only will you get your smile restored but there will be health advantages as well with either a bridge or an implant. The natural teeth will not be able to shift into the gap, changing your bite pattern. With the gap filled you will be able to bite and chew normally. Your speech pattern will return to normal and you will not have to worry about long term affects to your facial structure. In conclusion, there isn’t one solution better than the other because each of us are so different. On paper it may say the implant is better but your jawbone isn’t ready for the titanium post or your insurance company strongly suggested a bridge. Either way, fill that gap.

Learn More About Dental Bridges : How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?