What is the Better Option: Tooth Implants or Bridges?

Posted by John Zeller on March 21st, 2018

This is undoubtedly a matter that many people face daily, according to dentist in Arborg. Unfortunately, there is no unambiguous answer. The decision, which of the two choices to choose, should be taken by the patient, but only when the dentist has clarified the advantages and disadvantages of both the bridge and the implant.

Before we look at these advantages and disadvantages, it is important to clarify that in this case we are talking about a comparison between two treatment options when both are possible. There are, however, some clinical cases where both are not possible, and only one is not a dilemma.

Both implants and bridges are methods of treatment aimed at restoring missing teeth.

What are implants?

Implants are an increasingly common choice for restoring missing teeth. In most cases they are titanium pins (screw-type). They can also be ceramic. They replace the roots of natural teeth. Once placed in the jaw, they are fitted with superstructures that are covered with crowns. Thus, all parts of the natural teeth are completely restored.

What are the bridges?

The bridges represent three or more interconnected crowns that are cemented on pre-fired, adjacent to missing teeth.

After briefly explaining what bridges and implants are, the main difference between the two treatment methods is that the adjacent teeth remain intact (implanted) in implant treatment.

Advantages of implants:

1. Other teeth next to the missing teeth remain intact - their health and integrity are not violated in any way.

2. Other teeth next to the missing teeth do not overload, taking extra chewing pressure.

3. Very good aesthetics.

4. Easy cleaning, which allows good oral hygiene.

Implant deficiencies:

One of the main disadvantages of implants is their cost, which is often the reason for some patients to give up implant treatment. However, when it comes to replacing only one missing tooth, if the amount required to prepare the teeth for a bridge is added to the value of the bridge, very often the price of the bridge becomes close to the implant price, and then it definitely should not be the leading criterion.

Another disadvantage is the time. Implant treatment requires more time. Occasionally, from the primary examination to the complete recovery of the missing tooth, it may take months or even a year.

Need for in-depth analysis by the dentist of surrounding tissues and additional paraclinical investigations such as a scanner.

Need for antibiotic therapy after surgical intervention to prevent infection.

Benefits of the bridges:

1. Lower price.

2. Made faster.

3. Good aesthetics.

Bridge deficiencies:

1. Scratching healthy teeth, which may lead to their damaging.

2. Risk of congestion of adjacent teeth leading to their loss.

3. Difficult cleaning and risk of gum disease.

If only one of the teeth carrying the bridge has to be treated or removed, the whole bridge must be rebuilt.

So, whether to choose a bridge or an implant? This solution should be taken after you have consulted your dentist. He is the one who knows your mouth, the problems in it and its possibilities even better than yourself. If both options are possible, he will prepare two treatment plans and guide you to what is the best for you.

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