Tooth Implants vs Bridges: Which is the Best Option for You?
We often get asked about the best option for replacing missing teeth. The fixed options are tooth implants and bridges. Either option has pros and cons of course, and the best option for you depends on your specific dental needs & of course limitations.
Tooth Implants
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. Missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone if the bone meets certain criteria. Serving as replacements for the missing teeth’s roots, these small components offer stability and durability once fully integrated. Completing the implant restoration process involves placing a crown atop each implant, offering optimal results in both appearance and functionality, resembling natural biological teeth.
Tooth implants are reputed for their remarkable longevity and exceptional durability provided users adhere to an effective maintenance plan. Aside from this advantage, there’s also an added bonus – keeping the jawbone healthy by slowing down its deterioration process. It’s important, however, to acknowledge that while dental implants offer great benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone due to certain medical circumstances or conditions.
When individuals possess low bone density levels or bone height or width, they may require a bone graft prior to undergoing a dental implant placement procedure. Additionally, it should be considered that dental implants often come with steeper price tags relative to options like bridges.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a more traditional way of replacing a missing tooth, and it is typically made-up of three or more crowns that are fused together, and seated on the teeth on either side of the gap. Patients seeking tooth replacement options would find bridges particularly appealing if they have lost one or more teeth consecutively where there are natural teeth. Additionally, choosing a bridge over implants would prove more economical and less demanding time wise.
While bridges are convenient in many ways, it is worth noting their drawbacks as well. Bridges can exert added strain on the supporting teeth and as such not all teeth are great supports for a bridge either.
Aside from its primary function as a replacement for missing teeth, bridges lack the ability to maintain jawbone health and can contribute to bone loss over an extended period. Consequently, identifying which option aligns with your unique dental needs necessitates thorough evaluation beforehand.
Missing one or more teeth can be distressing. To regain a natural looking and fully functioning smile, dental implants are a viable option worth considering. Choosing bridges might save you money when it comes to fixing consecutively missing teeth. Nevertheless, having a consultation with qualified dental practitioners beforehand is necessary for those who want dental implants – one must ensure they’re suitable candidates. It’s not uncommon for individuals who lack enough bone density to undergo pre-implant therapies like bone grafting in advance.
Our Services
At Soothing Dental San Francisco, our experts take pride in offering exceptional dental care services tailored specifically for you. We believe that everyone deserves the best when it comes to their oral health needs. That’s why we offer an array of high-quality services ranging from extractions and wisdom tooth removals to implants and cosmetic dentistry procedures – all designed with your satisfaction in mind.
To make an appointment with us, please visit our online booking portal at https://api.two.dental/calendar?bid=5669faedef7f16542ad59edd or call our office directly at 415 989 3953. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile!