Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridges

Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridges

If you have lost one or more teeth, it can be difficult to figure out what to do next. While you likely want to receive treatment to replace your teeth, there are a number of options to choose from.
You might find yourself wondering whether you should receive dental implants or a fixed bridge. Both are effective when replacing and restoring missing teeth, but there are differences between them that may impact the treatment that you choose.

Dental Bridges

In the past, dental bridges were the only option for replacing missing teeth. Made of porcelain or ceramic material, a dental bridge uses a prosthetic called a pontic to fill the gap in between two teeth. The pontic is attached to adjacent teeth by crowns, making it necessary to prep the neighboring healthy teeth.

Patients will often choose to receive a bridge as a more cost-effective solution. They may also have existing health issues that limit their candidacy for an implant.

Although bridges are less expensive, their lifespan does not usually exceed 10 years compared to implants, which have the potential to last a lifetime. Additionally, bridges require significant alterations to other natural teeth and can still become susceptible to wear over time.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to restore missing teeth and are the number one choice for many patients. The procedure starts with the placement of a titanium implant that is allowed to integrate with your jawbone. Once healed, a restoration is placed atop the one or more implants, creating a natural and permanent prosthetic.

Unlike bridges, dental implants do not involve any prep work to surrounding teeth and can be fabricated to match the shape, size, and color of your natural tooth enamel. Oral hygiene is also easier with implants, requiring only your usual brushing and flossing routine as opposed to bridges that can make the practice more challenging.

Although dental implants carry a heavier price tag, they are often more cost-effective in the long-run. Because they are permanent, you run no risk of needing a replacement or spending additional money in the future.

Get Your Dental Implants Today!

If you would like more information about dental implants or to find out whether they are the right treatment method for you, contact Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery at 703-436-4633 and schedule an appointment.