Dental Bridge or Dental Implants: Which Is for You?

Periodontists have many approaches to tooth replacement. Two of the most common are dental implants and bridges. Although both offer functional and aesthetic benefits, they do so differently. Gaining a better understanding of these differences can help you choose the most suitable option based on your needs, lifestyle, and oral health.

An overview of dental implants and bridges

The power of dental implants

Dental implants are an innovative, permanent tooth replacement. An implant is a titanium post that the periodontist surgically inserts into the jawbone, where it can act as an artificial tooth root. After the implant has fused with the bone through a process called osseointegration, the periodontist places a permanent dental crown or similar prosthetic on top of the implant to create a natural-looking and fully functional smile restoration.

A major benefit of implants is their ability to replace any number of missing teeth. A periodontist can place one dental implant to replace a single tooth. They may also place several strategically throughout the jawbone to support a partial or full permanent denture.

The role of dental bridges

A periodontist can use dental bridges to replace up to a few missing teeth. They are best at filling gaps left by a single missing tooth. This is because of the dental bridge framework, which consists of an artificial tooth (pontic) held in place by dental crowns attached to the adjacent healthy teeth. Placing bridges is typically quicker and less invasive than dental implants, as it does not require surgery.

However, there are also dental implant-supported bridges. As the name suggests, this framework involves a pontic held in place by implants. A periodontist may recommend implant-supported bridges when the patient is missing two or more teeth in a row.

Comparing dental implants and bridges

Dental implants and bridges are reliable tooth replacements. Both restore chewing and speaking ability, as well as the aesthetic appeal of a smile. However, they differ in several important ways. These include:

Placement procedures

Dental implants require oral surgery, while bridges do not. Implants also have a longer healing period. Although the wait is usually worth it, patients looking for a nonsurgical tooth replacement or one with little to no downtime should opt for dental bridges.

Durability

Dental implants are more durable than bridges because of their placement procedure. Since they become integrated with the jawbone, they function like natural teeth. That means they can withstand chewing force a bit better than bridges. Further, implants can last a lifetime, although it is normal to have the crowns replaced every 10 to 15 years, depending on how well they are cared for. Similarly, bridges can last up to 15 years.

Jawbone preservation

Dental implants help preserve the jawbone by keeping it engaged. They can only accomplish this because they integrate with the bone and do not rely on adjacent teeth for support. Thus, dental bridges can replace teeth but cannot preserve the jawbone since they use pontics and supporting teeth to replace missing teeth.