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Dental implants and bridges are known to be two of the most reliable oral restorations used to replace missing teeth. When it comes to choosing between them, it may seem like a tough choice for patients with a lost tooth. Here is a read that will help you get a better understanding of both these restorations so that you can choose what’s best for you.

Structure

Both dental bridges and implants look similar when bonded in place of the missing tooth. This is because they are made from dental-grade, tooth-colored ceramic material. But, they aren’t just the prosthetic tooth that is visible to your eye. A bridge is combined with crowns on either side to hold it firmly in position. An implant consists of a metal stud that goes into the jawbone in place of the tooth root and helps to hold the prosthetic in place.

Preparation

Since a bridge is held in position using crowns, the teeth adjoining the gap will have to be prepared for the bridge. The dentist grinds these teeth using high-precision dental instruments to remove a thin layer of enamel. This is done to accommodate the crowns, which otherwise will make the teeth look bloated. In simpler terms, the natural tissues of your body will be extracted and replaced with prosthetic ones. However, there is no such procedure in the case of dental implants.

Jawbone

When a dentist extracts the tooth, a small chunk of the bone tissue is removed along with it. Gradually, the bone could wear at this point and shrink considerably. It can give rise to malocclusion and even a change in the shape of the facial structure. Placing an implant in the missing tooth’s position fills the gap left by it. Also, the grooves on the implant’s surface hold the jawbone structure intact and prevent its deterioration. The adjoining teeth do not drift from their orthodontically right positions with an implant in place.

Strength and stability

An implant is far more strong and stable compared to a dental bridge. The metal tooth root is made from Titanium, which is one of the hardest and most durable metals. After the surgery is complete, the dentist suggests a few weeks for the wound to heal and the jawbone to grow around the implant. The jawbone holds the implant firmly in place and prevents it from breaking or slipping off.

Call us or schedule an online appointment to know about dental implants, and we’ll be happy to help.