When teeth are lost or extracted, the priority is to restore functionality. Their absence can affect self-esteem and self-confidence, and can change the shape of the face and create difficulties with eating. The two most common solutions to these problems are dental implants and bridges.
Dental implants and bridges may seem similar, both options are very different technically. When looking for the right solution to replace missing teeth, it’s important to know more about these differences and the main benefits of each.
A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as a tooth root and supports a crown. It is surgically inserted into the jawbone. It then fuses with the bone and provides a secure fixation in the desired position. After the osseointegration process is completed, an abutment is attached to the post framework. It protrudes above the gum line to provide space for the dental crown.
A dental bridge is also used to fill the space of a missing tooth. As the name implies, it bridges the gap between the teeth created by a missing tooth. The bridge must be anchored to one or more neighboring healthy teeth, which must be pre-sharpened to provide support. This allows the structure to withstand daily chewing loads. Unlike implants, dental bridges do not replace the root.
It is worth noting that placing a dental implant or bridge involves dental intervention. And before any intervention to restore the dentition, the teeth and gums are treated. Because, there should be no inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between a dental bridge and implantation.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IMPLANTATION AND DENTAL BRIDGES
Implantation and bridge placement are two different methods for replacing missing teeth. The main differences are summarized below:
1.PERFORMING THE PROCEDURE
As stated, a dental bridge is attached to healthy teeth. During your first visit for a dental bridge, the dentist prepares the neighboring teeth. Preparation includes removing some of the enamel and grinding to reshape the contour. This is done to make room for the crown that the dentist puts on them.
The next step is to take impressions of the teeth to use as a model from which the dentures are made in the laboratory. A temporary bridge will be placed for this period. During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary and install the fabricated permanent bridge. He will also check it and adjust it to ensure a proper fit. A dental bridge allows you to restore one or more lost teeth.
Although the dental bridge procedure itself is less invasive than implants, the classic method of placing a bridge involves grinding down healthy teeth. Therefore, they are more vulnerable to decay. If the life of the bridge ends, cracks may appear in it. Bacteria penetrate through them and infect the teeth. This is why modern dentistry recommends dental implants as an alternative to restoring lost teeth.
2.DURATION OF TREATMENT
Implants can take 3-6 months, as the implant must fuse with the jaw bone before an abutment and dental crown can be added. If the patient has insufficient jawbone density, a sinus elevator or bone augmentation may be required. This will increase the length of treatment.
3.TYPES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS AND BRIDGES
There are different types and brands of implants. However, irrespective of the type, the implants and more specifically the stem and abutment are made of bioinert titanium. The crown can be made of ceramic, metal-ceramic or zirconia.
4.NATURAL LOOK.
When choosing a dental bridge or implant, one of the main things to consider is appearance. Dental implants have a more natural look. They fit perfectly against the gum, whereas a bridge can be noticeable. In addition, implants are the most comfortable solution. Once placed, they feel just like natural teeth and are just as durable.
5.DURABILITY
Another key factor in comparing a bridge to an implant is durability. Implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, and will last the patient for more than 20 years.
Dental bridges need to be replaced about every 10 years and require careful oral hygiene. Healthy teeth on which the bridge is fixed may be damaged by decay.