If you are missing a tooth, you may be thinking about getting a bridge to replace it. It is true that dental bridges offer some advantages. For example, they are quite sturdy, and they can prevent the nearby teeth from drifting out of place. The process for placing a bridge is also relatively fast and affordable. However, before you commit to a dental bridge, you should pause to ask, “Are implants better than bridges?” In this post, we discuss why the answer to that question is yes.
Easy Oral Hygiene
A dental bridge typically consists of three units: two crowns, and a pontic between the crowns. All parts of the bridge are connected to one another, which means it is impossible to floss between the units. It is also necessary to floss beneath the pontic, which can be a tedious task. A dental implant, on the other hand, is self-supporting. It needs only one crown, placed on top of the implant, to fill in the gap in a patient’s dental arch. Therefore, an implant makes it easy to maintain a completely normal oral hygiene routine.
There Is Nothing to Rot
If something goes wrong with a dental bridge — for example, if it cracks or breaks — and the issue is not corrected right away, bacteria can easily sneak beneath the restoration and cause the supporting teeth to rot. That will never happen with a dental implant because it does not require the support of nearby teeth. Furthermore, an implant is constructed out of biocompatible titanium, and its restoration is high-grade porcelain. Both materials are built to stand the test of time.
Longevity
With proper care, a dental bridge may last for 10 years or longer. A dental implant lasts even longer. In fact, it has the potential to last a lifetime. Its restoration may last for well over a decade. In the long-term, an implant may even cost less than a bridge because it is better able to endure the passage of time.
Bone Health
After you lose a tooth, the bone that once supported it begins to be resorbed. That is to say, your body recycles the bone material for other purposes. A dental implant acts as a substitute tooth root and stimulates the jawbone, helping to keep it as strong as possible. A dental bridge does not offer this advantage.
For most patients, a dental implant is a much better option than a dental bridge. Your dentist will thoroughly discuss the pros and cons of both options with you so you can make the decision that is best for your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Priya Gopinathan earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Boston University’s Goldman School of Medicine in 2000. Since then, she has continually honed her skills through advanced education and memberships in prestigious professional organizations. She and the rest of the team at Abington Family Dental Care are proud to offer both bridges and dental implants. To learn more about our restorative services, contact us at 781-878-2190.