If you’re missing a tooth, your first instinct may be to get it fixed as quickly as possible before weighing in both options that are available to you: dental bridges and dental implants.
A dental bridge is a popular tooth restoration process that attaches to healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth. In short, a prosthetic tooth is attached to the bridge to fill in the gap of your missing tooth.
Afterwards, you must use care in cleaning around the bridge since dental hygiene problems may occur if the restoration is not properly cared for.
While this option helps restore your smile, it does have the tendency to weaken your surrounding teeth. Also, dental bridges need to be replaced on average of every 5-10 years which is another thing to consider when weighing your options.
However, if you’re seeking an option that could last a lifetime, you should consider dental implants.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth that takes the place of a real one that’s gone missing. It’s designed to attach and integrate into the jawbone and secures to the bone. In short, it’s an affixed artificial tooth which is attached via a metal abutment.
A downside to this option is it generally takes up to three months of healing time after the implant has been placed before a crown can be placed on top of it. If your bone is weak, the healing period can take a little longer.
The pros to a bridge restoration are that they are quicker to complete than an implant. A bridge is also a good option if surrounding teeth require crowns. However, it’s difficult to brush, floss, and clean under the bridge.
The pros to an implant are that an implant looks and acts like a real tooth. It costs about the same as a bridge, but it’s considered a better standard of care by dental professionals. The only downside to an implant is the time investment – while it’s only a two-step process, it can stake up to 2-3 months healing time in between the two steps.
Have more questions about the options available to restore your smile? Make an appointment today with West Humber Dentistry in Rexdale, ON to get the answers you’re looking for!