Are Dental Implants Better Than Bridges?

If you have a missing tooth, your dentist will likely suggest a replacement to take its place. A missing tooth can cause a variety of problems including difficulty chewing and difficulty pronouncing words. A missing tooth can also have a bigger impact on your dental health, by allowing other teeth in the mouth to move out of place.

Your dentist may recommend a dental bridge or a dental implant to fill the hole, depending on factors like your dental health and even your budget. Both types of prosthetic teeth can fill the space where your old tooth was, but each option is very different in its installation. It’s important to understand the difference. Yourdentist in Grand Island, NE can help you decide which one is the best option for your smile.

What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth that’s surgically inserted into the jaw. Implants are installed over the course of several dental visits. In fact, it can take up to a year to have the final implant in your mouth.

First, the dentist will install a post. Then, the dentist will install the abutment. Finally, the dentist will put a crown on top. If your jaw lacks sufficient density or volume, you may even need bone grafting before this procedure can be conducted. Your jaw will need to heal between each step.

Once the implant is in place, it’s a permanent replacement for your missing tooth. Dental implants look like and function very much like real teeth.

What Is A Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that’s placed between two healthy teeth. The bridge relies on a crown that is placed over each adjacent tooth to keep the artificial tooth in place.

In order to install the bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap must be ground down a little to make space for the crowns. Bridges are installed over fewer trips to the dentist, but they rely on the healthy teeth on either side of the bridge to stay in place.

Is One Better Than The Other?

Whether to get a dental implant or adental bridge in Grand Island, NE is up to you and your dentist. Work with your dentist at Gentle Dental Care to decide which one is best for you. Your dentist can help you make the decision, so call today to make an appointment.