What is the difference between a dental implant and a bridge?
GrandviewDental | August 18, 2008If you have a missing tooth there are typically 2 options to fix this situation. A dental implant or a bridge. Dr. Thompson can perform either procedure so he can help you determine which is your best option.
Pros of Dental Implants
- A dental implant looks and functions like a real tooth
- There is no reduction in tooth structure on any of your surrounding teeth, like there is with a bridge
- You maintain an implant like any other tooth with regular brushing and flossing
- Lasts indefinitely
- Implants don’t get cavities
- Better solution and “standard of care” in today’s modern dentistry
- Costs about the same as a bridge
- Dr. Thompson can place and restore dental implants. The majority of General Dentists can not perform the placement surgery so the patient must see a specialist, who charges more for the procedure.
- Replacing a missing tooth keeps surrounding teeth from shifting and provides more teeth to chew with as we age
Cons of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants are a two step process with 2 – 3 months of healing time in between the steps
- Dental Implants are a financial investment but typically no more than a bridge restoration. A dental implant is a lasting investment.
Pros of a Bridge Restoration
- A Bridge is faster to complete than an Implant because of the healing time needed for an implant. A bridge is still a two appointment process.
- A bridge is a good choice if the surrounding teeth also need crowns.
- Replacing a missing tooth keeps surrounding teeth from shifting and provides more teeth to chew with as we age
Cons of a Bridge Restoration
- Surrounding teeth must be “cut down” to support bridge
- Difficult to brush, floss, and clean under the bridge.
- Possibility of compromising surrounding teeth, if a very strict regimen of cleaning below the bridge is not followed.
- It is possible to get new decay under a bridge or surrounding teeth
- In most situations a dental implant has become the “gold standard” for replacing a missing tooth. Speak to a Dentist that can perform both procedures and decide for yourself.