Advantages of Dental Implants vs. Bridge

Posted on Jul 16, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

While a bridge or partial will initially cost more than having Dental Implants, I put strong emphasis on ‘initially’ for several reasons.

Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime. They are held in the jaw bone, just like natural tooth roots. This means that they do not rely on adjacent teeth for support. Leaving natural teeth untouched, rather than crown them merely to support a bridge, provides a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

Additionally, Dental Implants will never need (or cause the need for) a root canal or repair of cavities. It is a fact that the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth are most likely next in line to require removal. Dental Implants are designed to replace missing teeth using the natural foundation of your jaw bone.

Another benefit is how Dental Implants look and feel like your own teeth. Once placed, Dental Implants integrate into the structure of your bone. Through this, they help to prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and partials.

Over time, bone loss becomes obvious through changes in facial appearance. Bone loss contributes to deep wrinkles around the mouth, causing the corners of the mouth to turn downward even in a smile. Eventually, many develop a collapsed appearance of the mouth. This creates a ‘granny look’ that makes you appear far older than your actual age.

Because some people prefer to keep their Dental Implant treatment a private issue, no one ever need know that you have implant-supported replacement teeth. Some implant systems allow you to remove attached teeth, but many versions are non-removable. These types mean you’ll never have to remove your teeth from your mouth again. You’ll be able to wake up with a smile and brush your implanted teeth along with your natural teeth!

The success rate of Dental Implants is excellent. Properly selected, placed and maintained, this lifetime solution makes them a wise choice when it comes to tooth replacement. Since Periodontists specialize in gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth, they have the knowledge, training and facilities to give you teeth that look and feel just like your own.

When you compare Dental Implants to a bridge based on the long-term advantages rather than initial costs, the choice is an easy one. Dental Implants are a wise investment. To arrange a consultation to discuss your needs, call (828) 274-9440.