Factors To Consider When Deciding Between Dental Implants And Dental Bridges
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, you have two main options for a permanent solution. You can either get dental implants or dental bridges. In most cases, a dentist will recommend either of the two, but it is up to you to make a decision.
Deciding between dental implants and dental bridges can be challenging if you do not know what each option entails. Hence, before making a decision, it is essential to compare and contrast the pros and cons of each.
With that in mind, here are four comparison points between dental bridges and dental implants.
Number of Missing Teeth
Though both oral appliances are suitable for replacing missing teeth, the number of missing teeth that need to get replaced should be considered. If you have multiple missing teeth in a row, a dental bridge is your best option because it will replace multiple teeth with one oral appliance.
However, if you opt for dental implants in such a case, you will require multiple implants, and the cost can greatly surpass the costs of a bridge. Nonetheless, if you have a few missing teeth that are not in a row, dental implants are your best bet because you will need individual dental implants for every missing tooth.
Longevity
Though dental implants and dental bridges are permanent solutions for missing teeth, dental implants last longer than dental bridges.
Dental implants get installed in the jawbone, and thus they are more firmly fitted than dental bridges. Thus, a dental implant has the probability of lasting for a lifetime without the need for replacement. However, on average, a dental bridge will serve you for about 10-15 years, depending on the type of bridge you get.
Hence, if you are planning for a long-term solution, a dental implant is your best bet.
Installation Period
Dental implants take longer to install because you have to wait for the jawbone and the gums to heal before a crown can get installed on the implant. Depending on a patient's healing capabilities, a dental implant restoration can take between six months to a year before the implant is fully functional.
However, dental bridges do not include any invasive surgery, and thus, they are much faster to install. On average, a dental bridge usually takes only two visits to the dental office. During the first visit, the dentist prepares your anchor teeth to hold the dental bridge in place. During the second visit, the dentist installed the bridge on the crowns, and you are all set.
However, if you intend to use dental implants to hold the dental bridge in place, it will take much longer because you have to wait for the gums and the jawbone to heal before the bridge can get installed on the implants.
Cost
One of the key factors determining if you will get a dental implant or a dental bridge is the cost. Dental implants are generally more expensive than dental bridges. If you have multiple missing teeth, opting for a dental bridge will save you thousands of dollars compared to getting multiple dental implants. On average, a dental implant will cost you between $1,000 and $4,500, whereas a bridge will cost you between $1,500 and $15,000 depending on what kind of bridge you get.
For more information on dental implants and dental bridges, reach out to a local dentist.