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Posted on 2/15/2016 by Dr. Frank Sallustio |
 Often times, people lose their adult teeth, teeth that cannot be replaced with natural growth, through gum disease, tooth decay, or simple injury. However, that doesn't mean a full, complete smile can't still be achieved. Two different types of treatments for this are dental bridges and dental implants. Dental bridges are bridges between two teeth surrounding the missing one. The false tooth anchors onto the two natural teeth for support. The false tooth can be made of porcelain for a natural look, or something flashy like gold if preferred. Dental implants are a newer treatment than bridges, and work sort of like crowns. When a tooth is missing, a fake root can be made, and the implant can be fixed or removable. But which one is the one for you? While both of these restore your smile, keep other teeth in place, and help you regain any lost ability to speak or chew, it is important to look at the pros and cons of both of these operations. Dental bridges are cheaper, for one. They are more likely to be covered by insurance. The cost of a single-tooth bridge is much cheaper than an implant. The procedure does not require surgery and is much simpler. Another thing to look at is health. Smokers and patients suffering from diabetes are better candidates for bridges than implants. Also, a bridge is more ideal for a person who grinds their teeth in their sleep. Bridges also take much less time than implants, so if that is important, that is ideal as well. As for implants, they look more natural. Nonsmokers and those without diabetes are better candidates for implants. Also, good oral hygiene is required to maintain the implant. While implants are more costly, they don't require attachment to other teeth, and as a result, less strain will be put on surrounding teeth. Implants also can last a lifetime, while bridges are usually replaced after a certain number of years. However, implants are much more expensive, and the risk of infection is much higher. What it comes down to is which procedure works best for the patient. Implants may look better and may help protect surrounding teeth, but are more costly and time-consuming, with more risks associated. It is important to know the benefits and risks of both of them, and to weigh the cost and time to decide which of the two is right for you. If you have any questions please call our office today. |
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