A dental implant and a dental bridge are options for replacing missing teeth. The doctors at Burbank Periodontics are specialists in replacing missing teeth with dental implants. We will explain the differences between a dental implant and a dental bridge and eight advantages that make dental implants a healthier, more esthetic, and longer-lasting option for your smile.
What Are Dental Implant Advantages?
Six advantages of dental implants over a dental bridge are:
- Durable Structure
- Improved Function and Comfort
- Aesthetically Pleasing Results
- Easier Maintenance
- Increased Longevity
- Greater Cost Effectiveness
1. Durable Structure
Dental implants are screw-shaped, titanium artificial roots that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike a dental bridge which consists of a series of ceramic dental crowns joined at their sides, an implant replaces a tooth’s root and is secured with screws that integrate with your jaw bone. Some advantages of choosing dental implants over bridges include increased durability due to the titanium framework and improved stability as the implant replaces the tooth’s root.
2. Improved Function and Comfort
Dental implants provide far improved function and comfort over traditional bridges. Implants are secured directly into the jawbone, giving them greater stability and making them feel more like natural teeth. They also help to preserve the integrity of the remaining teeth since they don’t require them to be altered for use as anchors in a bridge as would be necessary with a traditional bridge. This leads to improved overall comfort and functioning compared to dentures or bridges.
3. Aesthetically Pleasing Results
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, giving them a more authentic appearance. Unlike bridges, they do not compromise the health of existing teeth to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result. Furthermore, they blend in seamlessly with the existing dental structure so that no one can tell that it is a prosthetic implant. This allows for a better aesthetic outcome than what can be achieved with conventional dental bridges.
4. Easier Maintenance
Dental implants require much less maintenance than traditional bridges. Implants are fixed into the jawbone and do not need to be replaced every few years, as is the case with bridges. Furthermore, their composition allows for brushing and flossing in the same way as natural teeth, making daily oral hygiene much easier than with a bridge. Proper care ensures that the implant will look and feel like a real tooth for years to come.
5. Increased Longevity
Dental implants offer far greater longevity than traditional bridges. As the implant is attached directly to the jawbone and not to existing teeth, it does not require ongoing maintenance like bridges do. This means that with proper care and hygiene, dental implants can last for many years – even decades – without needing to be replaced or repaired. Additionally, they are highly resistant to decay and other problems that can affect bridge work. All in all, this makes implants an excellent long-term investment for those looking for a reliable dental solution.
6. Greater Cost Effectiveness
Dental implants are more cost-effective than bridges in the long run. While the initial investment for an implant may be more expensive than a bridge, it does not require the same maintenance or repair costs associated with traditional bridges over time. This means they can save significant amounts of money in the long run, as there is no need to replace or repair them as often. Additionally, dental implants also protect existing teeth from damage due to shifting and other problems, which can add up to even greater savings over time.
Get Ready for Natural-Looking, Stable Results
The doctors at Burbank Periodontics have extensive training and experience in gum conditions, bone health, and tooth replacement. Through a thorough consultation, they can help you explore your options to determine the best solution for your needs – whether it’s dental implants or a bridge. They will inform you of the potential results of each option, helping you make an informed decision on the right course of action for achieving long-term oral health. Learn more about dental implants and how to get stable, natural-looking results.
