In contemporary dentistry, dental implants have gained greater popularity than bridges, emerging as the most advanced and conservative option for replacing missing teeth. Choosing between a dental implant and a cemented bridge involves considering various factors such as the patient’s budget, goals, lifestyle choices, and time constraints, all of which play a role in determining the optimal choice for new teeth.
While most dentists advocate for implants as the ideal solution due to their preventive effect on future bone loss, high success rates, facilitation of normal hygiene practices, longer lifespan compared to bridges, and infrequent need for replacement, exceptions exist. Circumstances like heavy smoking, budget constraints, or challenges in returning to the clinic for implant restoration may lead some individuals to opt for a bridge as a suitable alternative.
Instances when a fixed bridge is preferred over an implant:
- Cost considerations: A single implant is typically more expensive than a fixed 3-unit bridge.
- Desire to avoid surgery.
- Some dental insurance plans cover bridges but not implants.
Advantages of bridgework:
- Aesthetic, functional, predictable, and reliable.
- Lower cost.
- Faster results.
Disadvantages of dental bridges:
- Enamel removal of adjacent teeth is required.
- If adjacent teeth have crowns, they must be redone.
- Potential for tooth decay.
- Root canal treatment may be necessary if nerves are affected.
While bridges held a prominent position in the past, today, dental implants have surpassed them in popularity due to their affordability, cost-effectiveness, and numerous advantages. Dental implants are an excellent choice for those prone to cavities, as they eliminate the risk of cavity formation. Additionally, implants are less invasive to surrounding teeth compared to bridges, which may require drilling down adjacent healthy teeth. Bridges, over time, can break down with decay on abutment teeth and typically need replacement every 7 to 10 years.
The paramount benefit of dental implants lies in their ability to preserve bone health. Implants are strategically placed below the gum surface, stimulating the bone similarly to a natural tooth. This helps maintain the bone, providing a real-tooth look, feel, and function. Implants also offer the convenience of flossing between them, unlike bridges, which are challenging to clean underneath and may accumulate food, leading to odour or gum irritation.
In conclusion for your new teeth
In conclusion, consulting with an experienced cosmetic dentist or prosthodontist, particularly one well-versed in implants, is crucial to determine the most suitable option for new teeth. Comprehensive information on the advantages, disadvantages, cost differences, and potential risks of each option ensures that patients can make well-informed decisions tailored to their individual needs.
