If you are missing one or more of your teeth, all you know is that you don’t like how it looks, right? Missing teeth can affect your self-esteem and your ability to chew certain foods. You have more than one option for replacing your missing teeth, so which is better for you, a bridge or an implant? Let’s find out.
What Are Dental Implants?
Because dental implants replace both the root and the crown of your tooth, they are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement because of their stability and functionality. You can replace a single tooth or all of your teeth with dental implants.
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime and help reverse bone loss in your jaw. However, they are more expensive than dental bridges, and the procedure takes longer to complete because of the time it takes for your jaw to heal after the implant is placed in your jaw.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges typically use your teeth adjacent to where you are missing teeth as anchors for your new false teeth. Your dentist will place a dental crown on the teeth on either side of your missing teeth as support and attach the bridge to those dental crowns.
Dental bridges don’t last as long as dental implants, but they do last many years if you take care of them. Although they are not as strong as dental implants since the root of your tooth is not being replaced, they are more often covered by dental insurance and are a more affordable option. In addition, dental bridges require a shorter treatment time.
Which Is Right for You?
The best way to determine whether dental implants or dental bridges are the best tooth replacement option for you, contact our dentist in Holden MA at (508) 886-6046. Our dental team is dedicated to helping you develop the optimal treatment plan for your dental needs.