When you have missing or broken teeth, you may have them replaced with dental bridges or implants. Because we know that every patient is unique and has individual needs, Dr. Alvarado will assess your situation and determine which option is appropriate for you. Before you make your decision, we want you to be educated about the difference between the two options and which works best for your situation.
Implants vs. Bridges
Dental implants are placed in the bone with a titanium screw. The good side of this is that the tooth will function as a natural tooth and stimulate the bone to grow. This guarantees that your bone doesn’t deteriorate over time and you’ll maintain the structure of your face. Implants are also less likely to cause decay or gum disease.
Bridges are attached to the adjacent tooth, are less expensive and are placed quicker than implants. The teeth are prepared for the bridge when enamel is removed and crowns are placed to attach the bridge to. Bridges may require a root canal and are more likely to lead to gum disease and tooth decay over time.
Both options are beneficial to an individual with missing teeth. Bridges may work better if the teeth surrounding the missing tooth are full of fillings or need caps or crowns in the future. Dental implants are the stronger, more permanent option when it comes to replacing a missing tooth.
Implants are likely to last longer than bridges. When cared for correctly, implants can last a lifetime, while bridges may need to be replaced every ten years. Both options leave you with a natural looking tooth that matches the color of the rest of your teeth as closely as possible.
Schedule an Appointment
We don’t expect you to make the decision alone, and Dr. Alvarado offers his professional expertise and opinion to all of our patients. Call us today to schedule an appointment to learn more about implants and bridges.