Did you lose a tooth? If you have lost single or multiple teeth, your dentist may suggest filling the gap. Also affects your look, a gap in your smile can makes hard to eat for you, affect your speech or lead to nearby teeth shifting position. You could have potential risk of tooth decay and gum disease if food get stuck in the gaps. If you require permanent tooth replacement options, your dentist can explain the pros and cons of implants and bridges. Both option can fill vacant space and rehabilitate the appearance and function of your smile.
Dental bridge: pros and cons
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth or multiple teeth in a series, prepared by your dentist to mix with your natural teeth. These are generally composed from porcelain for a natural-looking appearance, but other options include porcelain fused to metal (PFM) and metal bridges. Bridges can be connected to the teeth on both sides. This is normally carried out by fitting crowns over these teeth, but some kinds of bridges can be supported by a crown on only one side, or by metal clasps behind the teeth.
Pros
- Rehabilitating natural appearance to person’s smile
- Rehabilitating ability to speak normally
- Maintaining normal facial structure
- Rehabilitating ability to chew food efficiently
- Preventing adjacent teeth from moving
- Doesn’t normally need surgery
- Fixed alternative to dentures
- Cheaper than dental implants
Cons
- Traditional bridges needs putting crowns over perfectly healthy teeth.
- Bridges don’t correct bone loss in the jaw
- Bridges don’t last as long as implants.
Dental implant: pros and cons
Dental implants replaces entire tooth, which incorporates the tooth root below the gum. Implants are fixed in the jaw by dentist. Over several months, the bone heals around the implant to make it secure, then a crown, bridge or denture is fitted over the top. To be ideal candidate for a dental implant, there must be sufficient bone mass in your jaw. If your jaw is too small, your dentist can suggest bone grafting or other treatments.
Pros
- Looks like a natural tooth
- Supports your jaw and face
- Lasts longer than a bridge when you take care of your oral health
Cons
- Expensive more than a bridge or dentures
- More clinical risks are involved because oral surgery is required
- Longer treatment time as the jaw requires healing around the implant, unless you choose full arch implants
Talk to a dentist at Aesthetix Dental Care
Want to know more about dental implants, bridges and other options for replacing teeth? Book a consultation with our dentists to find out everything you require knowing to make a correct decision. Call our friendly team today on 96874 40469 or make an appointment online.