Implants vs. Dentures and Bridges Great Falls, MT
Dental implants, bridges, and dentures are effective tooth replacement options if you have one or more missing teeth. With advancements in dentistry, tooth loss is no longer permanent.
Millions of people in the world suffer from tooth loss due to issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. Make sure that you choose the most suitable tooth replacement option for your particular condition in order to ensure that your neighboring teeth remain aligned.
Dental Implants
Implants are replacements for tooth roots. They are essentially screw-like titanium posts that offer a robust base for artificial teeth.
Dental implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone and slowly fuse with it over time. This allows them to reliably support the replacement teeth on top to help you eat and speak normally.
Pros of Dental Implants
Here are some of the major advantages of dental implants:
• |
Implants restore bite force as they are firmly anchored within your gums.
|
• |
They provide stimulation to the jawbone to prevent bone loss.
|
• |
Implants can be designed to match the color of your natural teeth.
|
• |
They feel just like your natural teeth, making it convenient to speak normally.
|
• |
They can be cared for just like your original teeth. |
Cons of Dental Implants
While dental implants are durable and largely successful, there are a few disadvantages that you need to be mindful of:
• |
An implant is an expensive tooth replacement option.
|
• |
You may experience pain, bleeding, or swelling after surgery.
|
• |
Implants may cause sinus cavity or nerve damage to the surrounding muscles.
|
• |
In a rare scenario, your jawbone may reject the implant. |
Dental Bridges
A bridge can close the gaps caused by missing teeth. It involves a newly replaced tooth that is kept in position inside of your mouth using an abutment on each side of the gap.
Artificial teeth can be made out of different materials, with porcelain being the most common one as it can be crafted to resemble your natural teeth. Four main kinds of dental bridges include traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges.
Pros of Bridges
Pros of opting for bridges include:
• |
They can restore your ability to chew normally.
|
• |
Bridges help you speak properly.
|
• |
Bridges prevent bone loss by supporting the natural facial structure.
|
• |
As they cover the space formed by missing teeth, bridges prevent the surrounding teeth from moving into the empty tooth socket. |
Cons of Bridges
While bridges are a tried and tested tooth replacement option, here are some disadvantages that you need to know about:
• |
Bacteria and plaque may make their way inside of your mouth if bridges are not attached properly.
|
• |
Damage to the abutment teeth in the future can have a negative impact on the bridge.
|
• |
If abutment teeth are not sturdy enough, the bridge may collapse.
|
• |
Crowns may compromise your tooth structure and effect your bite. |
Dentures
Dentures are removable replacement options for missing teeth. If almost all of your teeth are missing, complete dentures are preferable, while partial dentures are suitable when some original teeth still remain.
Dentures are made of a pink-colored acrylic base that is customized to fit over your gums. The foundation of the upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, while the lower one is formed like a horseshoe to make space for your tongue.
Pros of Dentures
Here are some benefits of dentures to replace your missing teeth:
• |
Dentures look cohesive and help you smile confidently.
|
• |
You can opt for dentures even if you have weak teeth or a weak jawbone.
|
• |
It is convenient to maintain dentures. The removable ones can be taken out and cleaned quickly. |
Cons of Dentures
While dentures are a popular tooth replacement method, some disadvantages include:
• |
Dentures are prone to wear and tear, and may need to be replaced after some time.
|
• |
Multiple procedures are involved in getting dentures fixed, such as creating molds of your mouth, getting rid of decayed teeth, and fitting dentures properly.
|
• |
As the dentures cover the palate, you may be unable to taste food well.
|
• |
There may be some soreness if the dentures become loose. |
You can decide among dental implants, bridges, and dentures depending on the condition of your teeth and the number of teeth missing. If you have a healthy set of teeth and a stable jawbone, implants and bridges are a better option. On the other hand, if many of your teeth are missing and your jawbone health is compromised as well, then dentures are more suitable for you. If you have a loose or missing tooth, schedule an appointment with us at River's Edge Dental by calling us at (406) 315-5882 today. |