Dental Bridge vs. Implant: Which Option is Right for You?

Have you happened to lose a tooth? Does it seem like a scary and depressing thing for you? Don’t worry! There are ways to solve this problem. Dentists usually handle issues in detail with the use of implants or bridges. And for this reason we bring the comprehensive guide on Dental Bridge Vs. Implant. Here in this guide, we are going to put both options in front of you to show which one is the perfect option for your oral health and for you.

The Reason That A Bridge Or Implant May Be Prescribed

The main reason behind getting any of these treatments is you need to replace missing teeth. Once done, these treatments will greatly boost your overall appearance. Your smile and the function of your bite are restored.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is like a new root for your missing tooth. A dental implant is a small post, mainly titanium, that a dentist cuts your jawbone into and puts the post into. After it heals, they place a crown on top that is just as similar to an original tooth.

Parts Essential For A Dental Implant

Here are the main aspects or parts that can be used in dental implants.

• The Implant
• The Abutment
• The Crown

The Implant

Now, it is a small post made of titanium that can be placed in the spot where the golden implant root used to be in the jaw.

The Abutment

This is a connecting piece that sits over the implant. It extends further than the gum level.

The Crown

This is the part that looks like a tooth. It is glued to the abutment, and like the other parts, you can see it only in the mouth.

This is in contrast to other solutions for tooth replacement, such as bridges or dentures. They are removed after a certain period. An implant will become a part of your body that will stay with you forever. The removal is done automatically by the dentist.

What Does a Dental Implant Do?

Here, we go on to the mechanisms of how a dental implant works. So, it is a procedure of getting a replacement tooth that goes through several steps and takes time, but it will produce attractive results:

• Planning
• Removing the Old Tooth
• Preparing the Jawbone
• Placing the Implant
• Waiting and Healing
• Adding the Abutment
• Making the Crown
• Attaching the Crown

Planning

The very step in getting an implant is planning. It is an initial quasi-operations test that will be conducted by the doctor just to have an overall idea about the severity of the problem. Through radiography, a dentist can take many radiographs and sometimes even 3D scans of your jaw. From the obtained things, he can plan very accurately where to put the implant.

Removing the Old Tooth

In the second spot, we removed the old tooth. If there is some part of the tooth left, the dentist will very gently go in and take it out. Therefore, it may be omitted sometimes if the tooth is not already missing.

Preparing the Jawbone

In the next phase, if your jawbone is weak and cannot sustain an implant, you might, apart from the implant, need a bone graft. Here, the dentist is going to put some special material that will make your jawbone stronger. In case it is necessary, there will be a period of a few months when you have to wait for it to heal before you can take the next step.

Placing the Implant

Then comes the placement of the implant. This is the main surgical step. Our dentist will begin with a small incision in your gum to expose the bone. Then, they place a tiny hole in the bone and insert the implant post into it. This post will act like a new tooth root.

Waiting and Healing

Right after the implant procedure, this is a time to wait and heal. The one part of the implant procedure is the most important. The bone should grow around the implant. This process is called osseointegration. It is similar to your bone because the implant is going to hold it in place. This might last four or five months, depending on the patient.

Adding the Abutment

Then comes adding an abutment. The resulting saliva might be a little lap compared to the upper part of the mouth. Now, the dentist, as a last step, will use a handheld drill to carefully lift the gum and access the section where the implant is located there to insert the connector piece into place where it goes.

Making the Crown

In the hospital room, where he or she can fix the newly attached piece while waiting for your gums to heal, the dentist will create a beautiful crown for you. They will work carefully to ensure the colour of your new tooth matches that of other teeth and will fit into your mouth completely.

Attaching the Crown

This is the last step in the process of installing the implant. The dentist finishes the process by connecting the crown with the abutment. Then you have a substitute tooth as good as the former.

Dental Implants And Its Functions

In this segment, we are going to discuss one of the main aspects of the implant process. Its functions. Once in place, a dental implant is as a natural tooth:

• Chewing
• Speaking
• Appearance
• Bone Health

Chewing

By using dental implants, you can eat and chew food as you normally do. Implants are very durable, and you don’t have to worry about them getting dislodged.

Speaking

Other dental issues like cavities or missing teeth can create difficulty in speaking. An implanted oral structure largely helps people speak naturally.

Appearance

The outer part of your mouth, including a fake tooth that carries the effect as though it were real even though it’s not, remains the same, thus giving you a perfect and youthful look.

Bone Health

In the last spot, we have overall bone health. When you chew, your implant stimulates your jawbone to grow. This activity is good as it keeps the bone strong and healthy.

How Does A Dental Implant Work?

The dental implant works seamlessly. We have simplified the whole process in a few lines for you so that you can easily understand what this process is and how it is carried out. Here are some of the common workings of dental implants which are as follows:

• A metal framework is implanted into your jawbone.
• Wherein the dentist sets the implant stud.
• The bone heals.
• The gums start encircling the existing implant.
• This builds the overall strength of your gums and teeth.
• When it is fully recovered, the dentist places a solid tooth covering the bridge on top.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is kind of like a bridge between your teeth. By using the teeth on both sides of the gap, the bridge is able to secure a fake tooth in the middle. The bridge simply “bridges” the commonplace wherein your missing tooth was.

Essential Components of a Dental Bridge

Here is the essential list of the components of a dental bridge procedure.

• Pontic
• Abutment Teeth
• Crowns

Pontic

It is the false (artificial) tooth or the false teeth that are substituted for the lost tooth or the teeth.

Abutment Teeth

These are the natural teeth or implants that are on the sides of the space and help fix the bridge.

Crowns

Astutely, the abutment teeth are capped with crowns to ensure the bridge remains in place.

Types of Dental Bridges

Here are the main types of Dental Bridges:

• Traditional Bridge
• Cantilever Bridge
• Maryland Bridge
• Implant-Supported Bridge

Traditional Bridge

This is a crown on an artificial tooth at the place (tooth) of the bridge. It is the most widespread technique. This includes creating a suitable crown for the teeth or implant on both sides of the free space in the mouth and producing a pontic in between.

Cantilever Bridge

A Cantilever Bridge is a dental bridge that is used when there is only one side of the missing tooth or teeth are adjacent to the bridge. It conveys that it is quite rare, and mostly, it is not recommended to be used in the back of the mouth.

Maryland Bridge

The resin-bonded bridge, which is also a resin-bonded bridge, may receive a metal or porcelain bone scaffold with wings that are bonded to the existing teeth. The dental frames with wings that connect the missing teeth to the actual teeth are still used to hang this.

Implant-Supported Bridge

Rather than being housed on the teeth or on the reinforcements, these bridges are based on the plants that are rooted through the implantation process into the jaw.

How Does a Dental Bridge Work?

They are fixed between the areas from which the tooth is missing. A dental bridge is a fixture to substitute lost tooth/teeth with. The function of the restored bridge is to form a false tooth in the referred location. Here’s how he does his duty:

• Preparation
• Impressions
• Temporary Bridge
• Fitting
• Cementing

Preparation

The dentist first preps the abutment teeth according to a standard routine. These are the teeth on either side of the gap. The dentist cuts a little chamfer on these teeth to make space for the bridge.

Impressions

Next, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth using a special mixture of sulcus paste, tooth scanning, and, most often, hand modelling. The replication of the actual teeth in the model of the bridge, which has the pontic and crowns for the abutment teeth, is done using this impression.

Temporary Bridge

While the technician in the dental lab creates your definitive bridge, the dentist constructs a temporary one made of plastic that will remain on exposed teeth for some time. Your dentist places a plastic bridge between the two spaces so as to avoid the clenching down of teeth to corrupted teeth and so the teeth barely hit each other.

Fitting

The dentist removes the temporary bridge when the permanent bridge is ready. The new bridge is then inserted into your mouth, after which any necessary adjustments are made to ensure a comfortable and proper fit in your mouth.

Cementing

After ensuring the perfect fit of the bridge, the dentist will now cement it permanently into its place. This is achieved because the false tooth is being held with the help of the crowns on the abutment teeth. It is effectively filling the gap in your smile.

This process enables the dental bridge to successfully fill the gap in your tooth and replace the missing one, thus restoring your smile and allowing you to eat without difficulty.

Dental Bridge Vs. Implant Pros And Cons

We bring you some of the pros and cons of the Dental bridge Vs. Implants. Let’s start with the pros of dental implants.

Pros Of Dental Implants

• Natural Appearance and Feel
• Long-Lasting Solution
• No Impact on Surrounding Teeth
• Jawbone Health:
• Improved Oral Function
• No Special Maintenance

Natural Appearance and Feel

Just like your natural teeth, dental implants are the same. Further, the implants are very comfortable in your mouth. It may be possible you are unaware of the fact that you have an implant because it is so normal it feels like nothing. In the end, with implants, you are able to eat all foods.

Long-Lasting Solution

The implants offer a long-lasting solution. It can last for many years with proper care by following a lifetime protocol. Further, they are indeed a durable solution compared to other artificial teeth replacements. You won’t have to replace them as often as other options, such as dentures.

No Impact on Surrounding Teeth

There is no impact on your surrounding teeth. The implants stand up on their own and are not held by other teeth. Furthermore, healthy teeth are safe and sound untouched during the implant procedure. This keeps the overall health of your mouth.

Jawbone Health

Implants play a crucial role in preserving your jawbone while promoting its health. They avert bone loss that generally occurs when teeth are missing. This goes along with the preservation of the real shape of the face as well as the non-healing of the face.

Improved Oral Function

Eating has become simpler with the help of implants; moreover, meals are more enjoyable. The restored teeth get as strong as natural ones, so you can bite and chew the food like you do with the natural ones. Speech is now clearer thanks to implants as opposed to some other tooth replacement options.

No Special Maintenance

Brush and floss in the same way as for the implants and natural teeth. You won’t have to use any special cleaning liquids or anything like that. In addition, regular dental check-ups are the only thing that stands for these devices on the list.

Cons of Dental Implants

Now, we will go to the cons section of dental implants. Let’s start with the cost.

• Cost
• Surgical Procedure
• Time-Consuming Process
• Not Suitable for Everyone

Cost

The price of dental implants may be high, which easily provokes them to be more costly than other options for tooth replacement. The initial cost for many might be high. Some insurance plans may not cover or only partially cover implants.

Surgical Procedure

There is a need for an implant, and that requires surgery, which makes some people intimidated. Every surgical procedure carries infection and complication risks. You can be forced to take some days off work and other day-to-day activities to heal properly.

Time-Consuming Process

The whole process of implantation, which may take even longer than 4 months if the patient is lucky, requires more than one appointment for planning, surgery, and casting the artificial teeth. Not only do you have to wait for three months for your bone to heal and fuse with the bone marrow, but the denture will also be placed afterwards.

Not Suitable for Everyone

You need to have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. Some illnesses may be a barrier to the use of such a method of treatment. Cigarette smokers may be at a higher risk of implant failure.

To sum up, dental implants have become a popular treatment option due to the frequent benefits they provide, such as natural appearance, durability, and health improvement in the oral field. Dentists will diagnose and treat your implants and suggest other options, such as partial dentures, bridges, and dentures that will best fit your needs and individual cases.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges

We bring you some of the pros and cons of the Dental bridge Vs. Implants. Let’s start with the pros of dental bridges.

Pros of Dental Bridges

• Restored Smile
• Improved Chewing
• Prevents Tooth Shifting
• Quick Procedure
• Cost-Effective
• Natural Appearance
• Long-Lasting

Restored Smile

Dental bridges can capably restore the gaps in your teeth, thus providing you with a complete and aesthetically pleasing smile. This can be regarded as one way to enhance your self-esteem and your overall outlook on life.

Improved Chewing

With the dental bridge, you can bite and chew your food with more ease. This not only makes eating more enjoyable but also aids in better digestion.

Prevents Tooth Shifting

Bridges are the most preferred treatment as they make the other teeth stick to their place well. Misalignment issues may happen if no bridge is placed, as the teeth around the gap might shift.

Quick Procedure

Dental bridges are made using techniques that are highly precise and give the technician the ability to make it quickly. Normally, the process of fitting a dental bridge is fast. In most cases, it may take approximately two dentist’ visits. This way, there is less chair time, and the results are quicker.

Cost-Effective

Dental bridges are frequently used as an affordable alternative to dental implants and teeth replacement implants. In most instances, a dental bridge is the first choice for many patients.

Natural Appearance

Dental bridges that are made today are designed exactly like natural teeth, so people can barely differentiate between the bridge and your teeth. The majority of people are not able to tell the difference between the bridge and the real teeth.

Long-Lasting

A dental bridge can stay in place for a long time if proper care and maintenance are done. This is what helps to keep you looking young and healthy.

Cons of Dental Bridges

Now, we are coming towards the cons section of the dental bridges. Let’s start with the Alteration of Healthy Teeth.

• Alteration of Healthy Teeth
• Less Permanent Than Implants
• Cleaning Challenges
• Initial Discomfort
• All-or-Nothing Repairs
• Risk of Decay
• Dietary Restrictions

Alteration of Healthy Teeth

The teeth bracketing the gap may have to be filed down in order to accommodate the placement of the bridge. This action can possibly weaken otherwise healthy teeth.

Less Permanent Than Implants

While they are long-term, bridges may not be as permanent and stable as dental implants. Usually, they must be replaced after a few years of use.

Cleaning Challenges

Some people have a hard time reaching the area underneath the bridge to clean. This means being very careful and working on the point of good oral hygiene.

Initial Discomfort

As soon as you get the bridge, you will notice that it feels most unexpectedly in your mouth. You can expect that it will take some time for you to get used to the new sensation.

All-or-Nothing Repairs

A drawback of having to repair or replace a missing part is that the whole component, which is often the case, must be reconstructed. It can, thus, result in a time-consuming and costly process.

Risk of Decay

A piece of food may get jammed in the bridge, leading to decay or infection if it isn’t properly cleaned. This may occur if the bridge is not cleaned properly.

Dietary Restrictions

You might have to limit some food choices, like sticky or hard foods, to avoid damaging your bridge. As a result, you may have to give up some of your favourite foods.

How An Implant Is Better?

The dental implant is known to serve the perfect features if and only if:

• The user wishes to have them for an extended period.
• The jawbone remains healthy.
• Implants do not exist next to your teeth.
• The complete process may take a few months.
• The patients are ready to undergo surgery.

How A Dental Bridge Is Better?

The dental bridge is known to serve the perfect features if and only if:

• You have some budget constraints.
• The patients like to save money by adopting this process.
• You, being a patient, are afraid of having surgery.
• For dental bridges, a strong jawbone is mandatory.
• For those whose jawbone is weak, a dental bridge is not an option.
• The patient cannot wait for the treatment to linger for some period.

How To Take Care Of Implants And Dental Bridges?

Taking care of your teeth is important, especially if you have implants or bridges. These are special dental fixes that need a little extra care to stay clean and last longer. Let’s learn how to take care of them step by step.

• Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
• Don’t Skip Flossing
• Visit the Dentist Regularly
• Avoid Hard Foods

Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush your teeth gently. Don’t forget to clean your implant, too, just like your natural teeth.

Don’t Skip Flossing

Flossing is super important to remove food stuck between your teeth. You can floss around your implant as well, but be gentle so you don’t hurt your gums.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Go to the dentist every few months. The dentist will check your implant to make sure it’s in good condition and your gums are healthy.

Avoid Hard Foods

Stay away from foods like hard candy, ice cubes, or nuts. These can damage the implant or make it loose over time.

Remember, the dentist is an ally who turns your health into something positive and your smile in the end results. You can also get suggestions from your dentist before making any decision, ask clear questions, and give your thoughts as well. This will help you get the correct information, and you will definitely find the best option.

The Cost of Implants vs Bridges

The overall cost of implants and bridges is the main deciding factor. The selection process for getting a treatment heavily depends upon the costs associated with these treatments.

• Dental Bridge Cost
• Implants Cost

Implant Cost

Dental implants are known to be a costly treatment. This permanent dental implant price varies from $900 to $3,000 per implant. Also, this is the single tooth implant cost without insurance. Furthermore, they are more durable than dental bridges. The life span for dental implants may last for 40 years. We hope that this information will clear all the doubts about how much 1 tooth implant costs?

Also, this type of dental treatment is more restrictive. The time for the treatment can be longer. There is one more thing that needs to be kept in mind: this process may cost twice depending upon the nature of your oral health and teeth alignment.

Dental Bridge Cost

Now, coming towards the dental bridge, this treatment may cost less than the implants. The cost of this treatment varies from $700 to $1,500. The dental bridge treatment can last anywhere between 10 to 20 years. Then, they need to be replaced. Please note that both of these treatments do not include any additional treatments or therapies.

How to Choose Between: Dental Bridge Vs. Implant

In the end, we are going to bring up some of the factors that play a vital role in deciding between a dental bridge and. Implant. These factors include the most important cost factor, convenience, and, in the end, the time taken to complete the whole process.

• Cost
• Health
• Time
• Suitability

Cost    

The cost is the main constraint between dental bridges and dental implants. On the other hand, dental implants are not covered by insurance, while dental bridges are covered by insurance. The cost or price tag attached to both of these dental procedures also varies from each other.

Health

Dental bridges are simple processes that do not require surgery, while dental implants require minor surgery. Persons with medical conditions must consult their doctor before undergoing these procedures. Furthermore, the dental health of the person is detrimental while having this type of procedure.

Time

Another key factor is the time spent with the dentist. In the case of dental bridges, anyone can have them within a couple of visits to their dentist. Moreover, dental implants are more time-consuming and require more time as compared to dental bridges.

Suitability

Dentists overall do not recommend dental implants to those who smoke or have out-of-control diabetics. Moreover, if the patient has gum-related diseases, the dentist will treat those first before going for any of the procedures.

Furthermore, when it comes to arriving at a decision about the dental bridge vs. dental implants, the dentist has the final say after examining your overall oral condition. In addition to this, there might be some questions that you need to be answered by your dentist or you need to ask your dentist in order to arrive at a decision. We have prepared a list of common questions for you:

• What is the replacement cost?
• What issues can be faced during the replacement?
• How lengthy is the complete procedure?
• What are the costs associated with these procedures?
• What do you need to do to keep your oral health up to the mark after the procedure?
• Is this oral surgery compulsory?

To answer all these questions mentioned above, the right answers come from your dentist. It all depends upon your oral situation, which can be analyzed by your dentist.

Dental Bridge Vs. Implant Price

The dental bridge Vs. Dental implant price varies according to the situation after it is examined by the dentist.

Dental Bridge Costs

The dental bridge costs are around $2000 to $3000. The price tag for the dental bridge process is without any insurance.

Dental Implant Cost

The dental implants cost around $1,500 to $6,000 per tooth. This price is based on various factors. In addition, if the patient needs complete teeth implants, it might cost anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000.

Conclusion

In the end, we hope that whatever we have provided you is the complete information about Dental bridges Vs. Implants. They are the two main tooth-replacing options that are currently prevailing in the market and recommended by dentists. In addition, dental bridges are the only option that is covered by your insurance. And they require a small upfront cost.

On the other hand, dental implants are the only option that offers a long-lasting solution. In the end, only your dentist can decide after examining your teeth which option is the best for your oral issues.

Frequently Asked Questions