When it comes to replacing a missing tooth, both a dental implant and bridge are great options however, we want to discuss the differences between the two.
A dental implant is a permanent titanium screw placed in your jaw that acts as the “root” of your tooth and anchors the replacement tooth in place. The major advantage is that because it mimics a natural tooth, it manages to maintain the bone and tissue and preserve the area in a similar fashion. They act like natural teeth, so you can bite and chew with confidence.
Implants don’t require any special treatment either for cleaning. Simply brush and floss as normal to keep the implants clean and healthy. The potential drawback is the timespan of the procedure as after the implant is surgically placed, it requires three months to heal prior to placing your final crown. During this time, a temporary cap is placed to protect the implant.
A dental bridge replaces your missing tooth by anchoring a replacement tooth to your natural teeth on either side of the space for support. The primary advantage is the timespan of the procedure as it can be completed in a couple of weeks. However, the disadvantage is that it requires removing tooth structure of the neighboring teeth that may otherwise be in healthy condition. It also does not protect the bone structure of the missing tooth and therefore you’re at more risk for loss of bone in that area over time. Dental bridges also require high maintenance to keep clean, using a special floss threader frequently to get beneath the bridge and remove debris and bacteria.
Other factors such as health history, presence of adequate bone etc. must be taken into account and a proper exam is needed to decide which option is best for you and your unique needs.
See our subsequent blog post 8 Things You Need to Know About Dental Implants to learn more.
If you’re missing a tooth or several teeth, then let’s talk about the best option for you. Schedule an appointment at Premier Smile Center in Fort Lauderdale to learn more.
