Single Tooth Dental Implant vs a Dental Bridge

Dentists often recommend a variety of tooth-replacement options, including dental bridges and dental implants. The most ideal option will depend on the specific case. The advantages and disadvantages should be considered before making any decisions. Read on to learn more about dental bridges and dental implants.

Dental implants and dental bridges

People lose teeth for numerous reasons. Some of the most common ones are gum disease, tooth decay, and injury. Gum disease usually develops when excessive plague ends up building up on the gumline and causing gum tissue to become swollen and red. If left untreated, it could lead to bone loss. Gum disease and tooth decay can both lead to tooth loss if a person does not seek help in good time.

Single-tooth implants

A single-tooth dental implant replaces the natural root of a missing tooth. It is a stand-alone unit and the adjacent teeth do not have to be prepared or ground down. After losing a tooth, a person may also lose bone mass in the jaw. The jawbone needs stimulation that comes from the teeth themselves.

The lack of stimulation often causes loss of the bone. Implants bond with the bone and stabilize it, which prevents further bone loss. Loss of teeth and bone also often makes the face to sag, which may make a person look older. Dental implants can help prevent changes in the shape of the face.

Dental bridges

A bridge is a fixed device that helps to connect an artificial replacement tooth to the adjacent existing natural teeth in the mouth. Bridges are also beneficial to the long-term structure of the mouth. It is not uncommon for a gap in the jaw to cause the teeth to slowly shift position and spread out. This can cause problems in the bite. But a bridge can help to prevent this problem.

When it is used to replace missing teeth, the teeth on each side are held securely in place. This helps to reduce the risk of movement and the consequential problems of the bite. The bridge can also help to minimize the risk of bone loss. This helps to maintain the facial structure. One major disadvantage of a bridge is that the adjacent teeth need to be prepped by removing enamel in order to hold the artificial replacement tooth in place.

Oral hygiene

Whether a person opts for a dental implant or bridge, careful oral hygiene is important. Brushing twice a day and flossing using the right products is vital. The dentist may recommend a variety of oral care products that will help. Seeing the dentist regularly for exams as well as cleanings is necessary.

Bottom line

Both dental bridges and dental implants offer effective ways of replacing lost teeth. There are also other tooth-replacement options, like dentures, that are commonly used for the same purpose. Talk to your dentist to find out the option that is better suited for your situation. Your dentist will elaborate on the benefits and risks of each option and together you can make the optimal decision.

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