What’s Better? Dental Bridge Or Implant?
Losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience, but advances in dental technology mean that with the right care and treatment you can still have a lot to smile about.
Even if it’s been years since you had a tooth removed or knocked out, it’s worth investigating the latest bridges and dental implants as long-term solutions.
But which procedure is most suitable?
The short answer is it depends on you, the condition of your other teeth and your lifestyle.
Building A Bridge
Not so long ago, a dental bridge was the only long-term option to replace a missing tooth.
Using the surrounding natural teeth as supports, a bridge positions the false teeth to fill in the gaps.
It’s a quick solution and requires no surgery. The superficial bonding requires no drilling and is less painful or invasive than the implant procedure.
Typically, a bridge can be fully installed within one to two weeks and is the more affordable option.
The downside of a bridge is that the procedure damages the neighbouring teeth by removing their enamel.
The bridge is only as strong as the teeth forming it, and if they decay or loosen over time, so will your bridge.
On average, you will have your bridge for five to seven years before it needs to be replaced, so you are committing to a recurring cost.
Maintenance of your bridge is both complicated and time consuming – but also essential if you are going to get the maximum benefit from the procedure.
The structure of your bridge means it will need regular flossing and meticulous oral care day-today.
A Permanent Implant
A dental implant is a newer and permanent solution which has increased in popularity in recent years.
It combines a titanium post which is implanted into the jawbone forming the ‘root’ of a crown which is fixed securely in place.
This is a surgical procedure and carries the possibility of complications such as nerve damage or infection.
To allow the titanium post to heal after the initial surgery, there is usually a delay of several months before the implant is completed with the crown.
All this comes with a heavier price tag and some insurance policies will not cover implants.
Once installed, however, implants come into their own. They look like natural teeth and your brushing routine can continue as normal.
Your other teeth are unaffected and your jaw benefits because the implants fill the open spaces.
Cost-Effective In The Long Run
In most cases, implants will last a lifetime, so can work out as a cost-effective solution over time.
When you need advice on choosing between an implant and a bridge, speak to Dentistry Plus, your friendly, affordable dentists in Perth.
We have five clinics across Joondalup, Leederville, Maddington, Leeming and Kwinana and each one is fitted with an on-site dental laboratory.
We use the latest in high-tech equipment such as digitally enhanced x-rays, intra-oral scanners and 3D printers.
Established in 2008, we’re the go-to dental clinic Perth families turn to for quality dental work at highly competitive prices, and for the most affordable dental implant prices in WA.
Dentistry Plus is covered with all health insurance funds and registered with DVA. Plus, we’re a Medibank Advantage plus provider so click here to make that appointment today.
