It’s not rare for adults in their 20s or 30s to lose a tooth. The good news is, restorative dentistry has come a long way in the last few years, and you can replace missing teeth without worry. If you visit a Fairfield, ME dental office, the dentist will usually recommend two most common options – dental implant and bridge. Here’s what you need to know.
Dental bridge – pros and cons
If you are missing a tooth, a dental bridge can help you replace it using a bridge with the support of adjacent teeth. There are several advantages of dental bridges. Firstly, the procedure is likely to be covered by insurance. There is no need for invasive surgery, which could be a great relief for people who have diabetes or other conditions. Compared to the costs of getting a dental implant, dental bridges are more affordable, and the whole procedure can be completed in just two visits and within two weeks.
On the flip side, dental bridges need to be replaced every ten years or so, and the natural look of the bridge may disappear with age.
Dental implants – pros and cons
A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that’s made of titanium. Implants are placed surgically in the jawbone, and a crown or bridge is used to replace the missing teeth. The benefits of dental implants are real. You can expect implants to last a lifetime, and the results are permanent. Because the surrounding teeth don’t need to be reduced, the consequences are less severe compared to bridges.
On the flip side, dental implants are not always covered by insurance. It can take up to six months to get replacement teeth. As surgery is involved, there are certain risks, and the overall healing process can take considerable time. Getting implants can be an expensive option when compared to bridges.
Which one is better?
There is no one answer to that question. Depending on the needs of the patient, a dentist may recommend either. Bridges don’t last as long but are easy to get, while implants offer a more permanent solution. If you are missing many teeth, getting implants may work better than a bridge. A lot also depends on your health history and if you have conditions like diabetes.
Both dental implants and bridges are in use and remain viable choices for patients. If you have your concerns, talk to your dentist in person about the options.